Principles of Style
What are the four main principles of writing style?
Clarity, conciseness, tone, and correctness.
What is the difference between concrete and abstract words?
Concrete words are specific and tangible, while abstract words are vague or general.
What is a simple sentence?
A sentence with one independent clause (e.g., “The company expanded.”).
What is a topic sentence?
The main idea of a paragraph, usually the first sentence.
What is tone in writing?
The writer’s attitude toward the subject and reader, expressed through word choice and style.
What’s the difference between “style” and “mechanics” in writing?
Style is how ideas are expressed (word choice, tone), while mechanics are the rules (spelling, grammar, punctuation)
Why should clichés and jargon be avoided in business writing?
They can confuse, bore, or alienate the reader.
What is a compound sentence?
A sentence with two independent clauses joined by a conjunction.
What does “unity” in a paragraph mean?
All sentences support one central idea.
Why is it important to use a natural, conversational tone?
It builds rapport and makes communication clearer and more relatable.
Why is it important to focus on the audience instead of yourself when writing?
Because effective communication is about meeting the reader’s needs, not the writer’s.
What is a euphemism, and when might it be inappropriate?
A polite substitute for a harsh term; it’s inappropriate if it hides or minimizes the truth.
What is a complex sentence?
A sentence with one independent clause and one or more dependent clauses.
What does “coherence” in a paragraph mean?
Ideas flow logically and are connected clearly.
What is the “you” attitude in business writing?
Focusing on the reader’s perspective instead of the writer’s.
Give an example of poor word choice that could make a message less effective.
Using jargon like “synergize” instead of plain language like “work together.”
What’s wrong with this sentence: “It is my belief that the company should consider possibly reducing costs.”
It’s wordy and hesitant; clearer version: “The company should reduce costs.”
When should you use active voice instead of passive voice?
When you want clarity and directness.
Why should paragraphs generally be 60–80 words long?
To avoid being too dense or too underdeveloped.
Give an example of negative language and rewrite it in positive language.
Negative: “You failed to submit the report.”
Positive: “Please submit the report as soon as possible.”
Rewrite this sentence to be clearer: “There is a need for the development of solutions by the team.”
“The team needs to develop solutions.”
Revise this wordy phrase into one word: “make a decision.”
Decide
Identify the type of sentence: “Although she was late, she still presented her report, and the class gave her positive feedback.”
Compound-complex sentence.
Name two strategies to improve coherence in a paragraph.
Use transitions, consistent pronouns, logical order, or repetition of key words.
Why is confidence important in tone, and how can phrases like “I think” weaken your message?
Confidence builds credibility; “I think” or “maybe” makes writing seem uncertain.