I am. You are. She is. Obviously, being is essential to existence, so it’s no surprise that to be verbs are essential in writing. (In fact, the previous sentence used three to be verbs. Can you spot them?) We’re the first to admit that it is nearly impossible to write without using an occasional are or is. (In fact, we just used two more!) However, most of us rely too heavily on to be verbs or use them unconsciously. To be verbs lack the vigor and power offered by stronger, more-action packed verbs. As a result, our writing suffers. Try the techniques below to invigorate your prose.

Here are the “to be” verbs you should try and change from passive to action packed verbs.

To Be, Is, Are, Was, Were, Been, and Being

More on how to replace “To Be” verbs located within this link.