We've discussed the do's of good word choice. Here are some do not:
Avoid these common errors in word choice.
o    Look distrustfully on modifiers. Adjectives and adverbs often weaken when they're intended to strengthen. They often serve as clutter. Trust your verbs. Trust your nouns. When revising, treat adverbs and adjectives as you would an uninvited guest at a party. You don't have to kick all of them out, but some are just up to no good and need to go.

o    Avoid sexist language. Avoid masculine or feminine pronouns when possible. Use articles, third person plural pronouns, second person pronouns, or both the masculine and feminine pronoun to avoid sexist language.
o    Avoid fancy language. Utilizing grandiose vernacular fails to attract the average peruse of literature means using fancy words turns away readers. Choose the word that works best. That word is usually the shortest one you can find that says what you want it to. If people wanted to read Shakespeare, they'd go to the library.