Put statements in positive form

Make definite assertions. Avoid tame, colorless, hesitating, noncommittal language. Use the word not as a means of denial or in antithesis, never as a means of evasion.

He is not often on time.

-> He usually came late.

She did not think that studying Latin was a sensitive way to use one's time.

-> She though the study of Latin a waste of time.

The reader is dissatisfied with being told only what is not; the reader wishes to be told what is.

Express even a negative word in positive form.

not honest -> dishonest

not satisfied -> dissatisfied

did not pay any attention to -> ignored

did not have much confidence in -> distrusted

Placing negative and positive in opposition makes for a stronger structure.

Not charity, but simple justice.

Negative words other than not are usually strong.

Her loveliness I never knew.

Save the auxiliaries would, should, could, may, might, and can for situations involving real uncertainty.