Many writers like to show off their erudition with devices that confuse rather than enlighten. These writers use alliterations and foreign words, phrases, or expressions when good English equivalents are available.

Avoid the use of fancy alliterations. The writer may think that they sound learned when they do nothing more than bewilder the reader. That does not mean that all alliterations should be avoided; only those meant to dazzle and amaze the reader with the writer's ingenuity. Obviously an apt alliteration can add pizzazz to a composition, but it must be used judiciously, not to overwhelm the reader.

Another fault is the use of foreign words or phrases that do nothing to enhance the writing but make it difficult for the reader to get at the crux of the writer's meaning. Sometimes the English language has no counterpart; then such use is acceptable if it is obvious that the reader will understand the writer's intent. Usually, though, the English language does have a comparable word, phrase, or expression, and that is what should be used.

Avoid any language that does not serve the purpose of clear, precise, and concise communication. As well, it should place the writer in the background rather than draw attention to his or her persona.

If you are writing for the general public, keep it unpretentious and straightforward without complex sentence structure and literary vocabulary as well as decorative alliteration.