Three ways to remove extra wording
Word counts below describe these editorial examples, using the same word-counting method as TextFixed. They are not a promised reduction for every request.
I am writing to let you know that the updated proposal is now ready for you to review.
The updated proposal is ready for your review.
Removing the introductory phrase brings the useful information forward.
At this point in time, we are unable to confirm the expected delivery date.
We cannot confirm the delivery date yet.
‘Yet’ keeps the uncertainty. The shorter sentence does not invent a delivery date.
Please make sure that you send the signed agreement before five on Friday.
Please send the signed agreement before five on Friday.
The request loses filler while keeping the agreement and deadline.
What should survive a shorter version?
- The main point: what happened, what you need, or what the reader should do.
- Names, dates, amounts, reference numbers, and other details that make the message actionable.
- Conditions such as ‘if approved’, ‘up to’, and ‘subject to confirmation’ that limit a claim.
- Necessary courtesy and context for the person receiving the message.
- Your level of certainty: ‘may’ and ‘will’ do not make the same promise.
Shorten a message or summarize a source?
Keep the message, use fewer words
Shorten is designed for revising selected writing such as a request, update, comment, or paragraph. Read the result as the message its recipient will receive.
Extract only the main points
That is a different editorial task. Check the original source yourself; a shortened draft should not be treated as a verified account of a document or a fact-check.
Before you cut another sentence
Can I set an exact word or character limit?
The built-in Shorten tool aims for a more concise version rather than an exact length. TextFixed Pro lets you save custom instructions such as a preferred length; check the result against any strict limit yourself.
Does shortening use the free writing allowance?
Yes. Each Shorten request counts the source words you submit against your rewriting allowance. Grammar corrections have a separate allowance on guest and free accounts.
Where do I shorten text?
Select your draft inside a supported Chrome or Safari writing field and choose Shorten. Review the preview, then replace the selection or copy the result. TextFixed’s website provides account management; the writing tool runs through the extension.