As usual, Mr. Twain has a way with words. 

Some critical editing advice here. Particularly for me.  Because I love to write...a lot.  Literally. (I once - on a challenge - wrote three paragraphs describing a pencil.)

But those of you who have checked out my work, know how hard I work to make my chapters short.  Trust me, it takes a ton of effort and editing skills to get those chapters down to the really good stuff. 

Writing 100 succinct, meaningful and inspirational words requires more mental gymnastics than pushing out 1000 words. Do not underestimate the power of identifying and cutting out extra or unnecessary words or passages.

Short handing it - Keep It Simple Stupid (KISS)  Here's a couple tips to help you spot the "fluff"

1. Repeated words or passages - say it once and only once

2. Less is more - describe a few key items of clothing relevant to the scene, not everything each character is wearing including all the brand names. 

3. Occam's Razor - The theory is based on the least assumptions is often correct.  Don't be afraid to let your readers fill in the blanks now and again.

4. Simplify then add - Focus in on the key elements you want in your scene.  If you need to move your characters inside because it's started raining, don't spend a lot of time describing the general weather pattern of the town they live in.

How do you spot editing opportunities in your work?