View a FREE sample

This quiz consists of 5 multiple choice and 5 short answer questions through Part I: Chapter 7 Usage.

Multiple Choice Questions

1. Why is the above a problem?
(a) Usually the first two or three paragraphs of a piece can be cut.
(b) Writers need to start at the end and work their way up.
(c) Writers end up editing too much.
(d) Writers don't put enough effort into their writing.

2. How does Zinsser approach unusual words?
(a) He is very welcoming of a transforming English language.
(b) He accepts some, but not all.
(c) He is modern when it comes to English, but would rather keep it simple.
(d) He is very conservative and will never cross a proper word line.

3. Chapter 3 is about __________.
(a) Clutter.
(b) Increasing the simplicity of writing.
(c) Reducing clutter.
(d) Simplicity.

4. What is a common problem writers have?
(a) Writing too little.
(b) Writing too much at first.
(c) Not writing at the same time every day.
(d) Starting at the true beginning.

5. How does Zissner have the ability to choose words for the American Heritage Dictionary?
(a) He works for the American Heritage Dictionary
(b) He is related to someone on the panel.
(c) He created the Dictionary.
(d) He is on the American Heritage Dictionary Usage Panel

Short Answer Questions

1. What is another example of when a person HAS to read bad writing?

2. When can ornamental writing be used as an exception?

3. Do good writers decorate their writing?

4. What does Zissner believe authors are fearful of in their writing?

5. What is the main thing required to being a good writer?

(see the answer key)

This section contains 311 words (approx. 2 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample