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This quiz consists of 5 multiple choice and 5 short answer questions through Part I: Chapter 4 Style.

Multiple Choice Questions

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

2. Who is the author talking to at the beginning of the book?
(a) He is presenting to student writers at a Connecticut school.
(b) He is talking to his wife.
(c) He is talking to his mother.
(d) He is talking with his editor.

3. Do good writers decorate their writing?
(a) Yes, with good punctuation.
(b) No, only bad writers do this to sell more copies.
(c) Yes, always with lots of extra words.
(d) No, good writers dont need ornamentation.

4. What group of people does the author think has the worst type of writing?
(a) Toddlers.
(b) Musicians.
(c) Teachers.
(d) Politicians.

5. Who is rivaling everything that Zissner is saying?
(a) A doctor who writes for a hobby.
(b) The professor of the class.
(c) A student in the audience.
(d) Another writer.

Short Answer Questions

1. Can good writing be taught?

2. Why doesn't he simply cross out clutter?

3. What are the best aspects of a good story?

4. What is the problem with American writing?

5. What happens when a product of writing is never read?

(see the answer key)

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