In classic literature, a single sentence could cover an entire page. Not today. Our modern audience loves short sentences, even paragraphs containing a single word.
Really.
While short sentences and paragraphs may be popular, we can carry the rule too far—creating a choppy, awkward pace that sounds like we’re writing a Dick and Jane book for first-graders.
Not only is variety the “spice of life,” it’s what readers most enjoy on the printed page. We want of mix of long and short sentences, with more short sentences during intense moments and more long sentences when the atmosphere is relaxed.
We also want a flow of thought. Several short sentences can feel like a bumpy ride down the rapids. Let’s see if we can take the following paragraph and give it a smoother flow.
Jack slaved a whole hour. Finally, the new water pump was installed. The bolts were securely tightened. So were all the hose clamps. He then filled up the radiator with antifreeze. He let the engine run for ten minutes. There were not any leaks.
We have seven sentences of five to eight words. We can take that information and rewrite it into three sentences of two to nineteen words.
An hour later, the new water pump was in place, bolts and hose clamps tight, radiator filled with antifreeze. Jack let the engine run for ten minutes. No leaks.
How did we do this? We condensed compete sentences into short, explanatory phrases set off with commas. Isn’t that better?
