Reduce expletive constructions

Expletive constructions are phrases such as:

• it is
• there is
• there are

Try to avoid using them, since these constructions merely obscure the main subject and action of a sentence.

Examples

Expletive: It was her last argument that finally persuaded me.
Correction: Her last argument finally persuaded me.

Expletive: There are likely to be many researchers raising questions about this methodological approach.
Correction: Many researchers are likely to raise questions about this methodological approach.

Expletive: It is inevitable that oil prices will rise.
Correction: Oil prices will inevitably rise.