Below is a list of Cliches that you should avoid when making anything, as well as IOs.
This isn't the law since anything can be great if done right, but if your aim is to make a good article without this in mind, it's best to try to avoid it.
This doesn't mean you can't have them in your article / tale, but when using them the burden of making them good or interesting becomes harder.
The List
Performance Enhancers
If it makes a novice an expert, a stick a laser rifle, or a file into a sword, it's most likely falling into this category. They can be done well if done properly, but outside of that it's incredibly cliche and less of an anomaly than something unpredictable.
Reality Benders
Overpowered Objects
You can't contain it if it's too overpowered.
Self Replicators
There is no "C" for create in "anomaly", but there is a "C" in cliche. Please steer clear of this one for the sake of writing clarity.
Previously Existing Items
No light sabers, no gravity guns, no portal guns, no facehuggers or HL2 vortigaunts. Be as original as possible.
Unknown Metals / Compounds
Insanity/Sanity Producers
Resource Pigs
If the killer robot only operates on diamonds, the FASA would simply save money and not give it diamonds. Please avoid resource pig IOs.
IOs that Need Other Ones to Exist.
Imitation is flattering, but it's not very fun to read.
Undeniable Lovable Objects
Incomprehensible Items
Inmate Disposals
If it serves as a black-hole for devouring Inmates or resources, you're most likely falling into this cliche. The FASA protects the rights of most inmates (non-death sentence ones), and will only throw away death-sentence inmates if it has to.
Time Travelling Items
Everyone has seen Dr. Who. Please steer away from this one unless it's interesting and well written.
Zombies, Aliens, Spaceships
Everlasting Power Supplies
Enigma Spewers
If it just mutters random words for no real reason it's most likely going to be thrown into a hydraulic press.