When I was in high school, I loved it when it was announced that the test was going to be an essay. While others groaned, I inwardly grinned with glee. I had the ability to put together many sentences containing (what I believed at the time) to be outstanding $5 words, which would fool the foolish teacher into thinking I knew what I was talking about.

I did well with those essay tests. But it wasn’t because I was fooling anyone. High school teachers are not stupid.

I overestimated my words and underestimated my knowledge.

Many years later, I have learned two things when writing.

Be clear.

Don’t sell your words by the pound.

Clarity has incredible value.