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This quiz consists of 5 multiple choice and 5 short answer questions through Part IV: Chapter 20 The Sound of Your Voice.

Multiple Choice Questions

1. Why is nonfiction more popular than fiction?
(a) Entertainment alternatives makes nonfiction more popular, even if it is a trend.
(b) It isn't more popular, it is just more widespread.
(c) It is what modern editors like to read.
(d) It is more entertaining since it is true.

2. What is a major problem with humorous writing?
(a) It gets dated, and what is funny in 1980 will not be funny in 2080.
(b) It is too hard to be funny in writing and takes a gifted person.
(c) Sarcasm does not come out in writing.
(d) It can never be taken seriously.

3. What does reading aloud do for the writer?
(a) It helps the writer compare their work to others.
(b) It is a therapeutic process signifying the end of a story.
(c) It allows writers to understand their own writing.
(d) Catches simple mistakes and clumsy constructions.

4. How is humor used in writing nonfiction?
(a) It is used to make fun of people without them every knowing.
(b) It is never used. Nonfiction should always be serious.
(c) It is used to bring out points that cannot be made in a straight forward manner.
(d) It is used to practice jokes for stand up comedians.

5. Why doesn't he simply cross out clutter?
(a) Because highlighting is easier to see.
(b) Because it uses too much ink to cross out than to bracket.
(c) So that his students will learn to recognize clutter.
(d) Because underlining is easier on the eyes.

Short Answer Questions

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

2. What do people need to understand about science?

3. Why is jargon, or corporate speak, so prevalent in business writing?

4. Does Zissner believe in the journalism model for good writing?

5. What do people forget about writing?

(see the answer key)

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