Use short sentences as a stylistic device
The essentials are in the main clause. In the subordinate clause the irrelevant. According to writing professionals, short sentences as stylistic devices should be used primarily in texts. Read here what function short sentences fulfill in a text.
Wolf Schneider is the most famous writing teacher in Germany. In his books he requires texts with short sentences. Why? So that texts don't bore the reader. But how long can or should a sentence be at most? Read more about short sentences as a stylistic device here.
Sentences, language style and stylistic devices
- What is the maximum length of a sentence in a text? Ten, 15 or even 20 words long? The answer to these questions is that there is no hard and fast rule for the correct sentence length.
- The record length also depends on the medium. If you write a text for the radio, for example, the rule of thumb is that sentences should be between 10 and 16 words long.
- Long sentences can actually be tiring to the reader, for example if they list a huge number of lists.
- On the other hand, a good long sentence takes the reader on a journey and tells an exciting one story and leads on to the next action.
If you want to write an informative text, tips for wording and ...
Short and long sentences - their effect on the reader
- A text that consists only of short sentences incites the reader. You should therefore switch between short and long sentences in your text. This creates a pleasant reading rhythm for the reader.
- Short sentences have the effect of propelling the action forward.
- Do not demonize the long sentence; use it for detailed descriptions. In this context, copywriters say that form should follow function.
- You can also structure sentences with punctuation marks. You can separate long sentences with a colon or a semicolon. This also creates tension for the reader.
- A text consists of individual sentences that you should skilfully string together. A lack of structure in your text also destroys the effect of the best sentences.
- The first sentence is very important when reading a text. The record length is only one criterion among many. It is more important that you get the reader's attention with the first sentence.
Short sentences - a stylistic device with which you create tension and propel the plot forward. However, you should pay attention to the right mix of long and short sentences in a text, and Don't just cling to a number that tells you the maximum number of words in a sentence allowed. Have fun writing!
