The use of “there is”, “there are”, and "It is" signal weak structure hiding the real verb. Often these words are followed by “who,” “that,” etc. which indicates the sentence should be rephrased. Basically, these empty phrases take emphasis away from your sentences.
| Example: | There are not many people in this department who can write well. |
| Revised: | Few people in this department write well. |
| Example: | There is no reason that can justify this behaviour. |
| Revised: | No reason justifies this behaviour. |
| Example: | There are several issues which we need to discuss. |
| Revised: | We need to discuss several issues. |
| Example: | There is the self-assessment test, which allows clients to identify what they need. |
| Revised: | The self-assessment test allows clients to identify what they need. |
| Revised: | Clients can identify what they need by completing the self-assessment test. |
| Example: | There is a comprehensive listing of studies and reports related to businesses on the website. |
| Revised: | The website provides a comprehensive listing of studies and reports. |
| Example: | It is not expected that the company will win the contract. |
| Revised: | The company is not expected to win the contract. |
| Revised: | We don't expect the company to win the contract. |