2. Learning Objectives
To further develop the writing technique of
KISS so we can express more with less
3. Introduction
Recall the difference between writing with
simplicity, and simple writing.
Simple is being immature in our writing while
simplicity is expressing more with less.
We will further develop our writing with
principles found in KISS.
4. KISS II – Cuts Extra Words
In KISS I, we learnt that good writing cuts.
We further develop this to: Good writing uses
precise nouns and verbs to show.
1) He greatly towers over all others in the court.
2) We train top champions in this training centre.
3) He wept bitterly.
4) He dragged his feet back home slowly.
Q: How does precise verb help in KISS?
5. Learning Activity 1
Say what these Nouns and Verbs imply.
1) Champion
2) Blue
3) Giant
4) Gangster
5) Sprinting
6) Thrashing
Q: Do they need extra descriptions?
6. Learning Activity 1 Answers
Say what these Nouns and Verbs imply.
1) Champion – the top winner
2) Blue – it's a colour
3) Giant – towering over all others
4) Gangster – possessing a violent streak
5) Sprinting – dashing
6) Thrashing – a good scolding
These don't need extra descriptions as they are
already loaded with meanings.
7. KISS II – Shows Not Tells
In KISS 1, we say that good writing shows.
We further develop this to: Good writing uses
objective descriptions, if necessary.
1) A child looked up and saw an enormous figure.
2) The church bell tolls, loud and clear.
3) The baby wailed non-stop.
Q: How does this rule enhance the effect of the
'looking', 'tolling' and 'wailing' respectively?
8. Learning Activity 2
Say why these descriptions are objective – that
is – they are generally agreeable.
1) We have developed a physical distaste of the
cooking in the army.
2) We hit the waters running, as we were heavily
covered in sweat.
3) The atmosphere was stifling after 1 month of
dry weather.
9. Learning Activity 2 Answers
Say why these descriptions are objective – that is
– they are generally agreeable.
1) We have developed a physical distaste of the
cooking in the army – Army is not known for
great food.
2) We hit the waters running, as we were heavily
covered in sweat – Being hot and sweaty, you
would want to dip in the cooling waters.
3) The atmosphere was stifling after 1 month of dry
weather – dryness is overbearing in drought.
10. Discussion
How does KISS II extend on the previous
principles in KISS?
11. In Summary
KISS represents simplicity in writing – Keep it
short and sharp – and KISS II takes this further
by:
Show using loaded Nouns and Verbs and,
Cut but retain objective descriptions.
