Old, old writing advice given to a member of a mystery writers’ forum I was a member of Way Back When. I forget who (sorry), but when she started at a local paper in the 70s, her editor gave her three of the best and most succinct bits of advice for writers.

1. Never use a ten dollar word where a ten cent one will do.
2. If you want to send a message, use Western Union, not your writing.
3. If you’re going to back into a story you’d better have a great-looking ass.

The last is my personal favourite.