Simplicity is a hallmark of good design. High-converting websites prompt action in part by revealing only what users need to see. Designing with clarity is challenging; it requires careful planning and attention to every item's meaning. But the extra effort spent removing distracting elements allows visitors the freedom to fully understand a design's impact without interference.

The same is true of writing. Writers may sprinkle their pieces with extra words to appear more knowledgeable or to make their argument more...