The Myth of Words Per Sentence in Writing: Embracing Flexibility for Clarity and Coherence

With the advent of various writing styles and guidelines, many writers fall into the trap of believing that there is a hard and fast rule about the number of words a sentence should contain. From minimalists who preach limiting sentences to 20 or 25 words, to those who hold firm to traditional guidelines, the debate rages on. However, the truth is far from these rigid constraints. In this article, we explore the myth of the words-per-sentence rule and the importance of focusing on sentence clarity and complexity rather than word count.

Discrediting the Words Per Sentence Myth

According to linguists, the length of a sentence does not inherently affect its understandability. Instead, it is the complexity of the sentence that matters most. This means that a sentence is only as good as its ability to convey the information effectively and without unnecessary confusion. Therefore, worrying about the number of words in a sentence is less important than ensuring the sentence is composed with the right elements to facilitate clear understanding.

Traditional writing rules often dictate that sentences should not exceed certain lengths. For example, school guidelines might suggest breaking up sentences over 30 words, while more stringent rules might limit sentences to 20 words. However, these rules are often outdated and can stifle creativity and expression. Instead of focusing on word count, writers should concentrate on the stream of information presented within the sentence.

The Power of Short and Long Sentences

Short sentences can be incredibly powerful tools in literature. They can create a sense of urgency, deliver direct information, or emphasize a particular point. For instance, a single-word sentence can be highly effective: "Run!" commands an immediate response and action. However, this is not to say that longer, more complex sentences are not valuable. Longer sentences filled with descriptive and qualifying elements can also be quite effective in painting a vivid picture or conveying detailed information. Consider these sentences:

Short and to the point: The sun was setting, casting a warm glow over the landscape. Long and descriptive: As the last rays of sunlight began their descent behind the towering hill, a golden hue spilled over the rolling hills, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink, while the gradually cooling air brought with it the sweet fragrance of blooming lavender in the nearby fields.

Both types of sentences have their place in effective writing, and the choice between them should depend on the context and the desired effect.

The Impact of Overly Long Sentences

While longer sentences can be beautiful and descriptive, sentences that exceed a reasonable length can also have negative consequences. Too many details in a single sentence can overwhelm the reader and make it difficult to follow the narrative flow. This can lead to a fragmented reading experience, where the reader is constantly skimming to find the main point or forced to slow down to comprehend the dense information.

Writers must be mindful of the structure and flow of their sentences. A run-on sentence, regardless of its correctness, can disrupt the rhythm of the piece and pull the reader out of the narrative. For instance, a sentence with 80 or more words, though grammatically correct, might be too long and sprawling, overwhelming the reader. As the example sentence to the last paragraph illustrates, the focus should be on the clarity and coherence of the sentence rather than its length.

Conclusion

The debate over the optimal number of words per sentence is a misguided one. Instead of rigidly adhering to rules that may stifle creativity, writers should focus on the clarity and complexity of their sentences. Short sentences can be powerful for brevity and directness, while longer sentences filled with descriptive elements can create a vivid and engaging narrative. The key is to use sentences that enhance the reader's experience and effectively convey the intended message. By embracing flexibility, writers can achieve a balance that is both clear and compelling.