Editing Repetitive Writing receives a topic-specific treatment on this page.
Step 1
Highlight sentences that make substantially the same claim.
Step 2
Keep the clearest, most specific, best-supported version.
Step 3
Move unique evidence into the surviving paragraph.
Step 4
Delete transitions that merely announce another restatement.
Step 5
Retain deliberate echoes that improve rhythm or structure.
Frequently asked questions
What does battologize mean?
To repeat words, phrases, or ideas excessively and tiresomely.
Is all repetition bad?
No. Deliberate repetition can create emphasis, rhythm, structure, or memory.
What is battology?
The noun for needless or wearisome repetition.
How do I fix repetitive writing?
Keep the strongest version and remove restatements that add nothing new.
Is battologize a real word?
Yes. It is an established but uncommon English verb.