Humor comes on the rewrite. So do the best analogies. The clearest construction. The best writing—period. Draft 4 is where we have the most fun.

Draft 4 adds voice, style, fun, sparkle, and humor.

• Count the number of yous. If you run out of fingers … you're doing great.
• Consult something like RelatedWords.org to help inspire word choice or lively metaphors. (See Tools in Part VII.)
• Create momentum. Make each sentence earn its keep. Is it a drag on the action? Cut it from this week's lineup.

Make each word earn its keep. Does it propel Petunia forward?

• Create clear copy hierarchy through white space, subheads, bullet points, images.

Finally:

• Trust Petunia. Don't overdescribe or overprescribe. Leave room for Petunia's imagination to curl up and settle into your writing.
• Relax. Have fun. Loosen up your fingers. Open your heart. If your writing feels like you're typing with a taser aimed at your sensitive nibs … you're doing it wrong.