CMN 279 Lecture Notes - Lecture 2: Dependent Clause, Relative Pronoun, Independent Clause
6 Dec 2016
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Document Summary
Use plain, precise and familiar language to get to the point, prevent misunderstanding, and write with impact. Develop a conversational and confident tone and adjust it to suit a range of writing purposes, professional situations and relationships. Use common words except for necessary technical terms: write to express, not impress. Use active voice verbs (8 words = 100% comprehension; 15 words = 90: the subject performs the action: (cid:498)bob selected the new computers v. the new computers were selected by bob(cid:499)) I, you, we (use in moderation, except in formal reports) Use unambiguous language: it will never be ambiguous for the writer, but always to the reader. Place the subject as close as possible to the verb. Consider: how long it takes to read, how the choice of words affects coherence and readability. Use fewer words whenever fewer will do. Eliminate long lead-ins: start directly unless extreme politeness is required, delete any opening phrases ending in that or because.
