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This quiz consists of 5 multiple choice and 5 short answer questions through Part II: Chapter 9 The Lead and the Ending.

Multiple Choice Questions

1. How does a writer become better at his craft?
(a) By taking a writing class.
(b) By reading everything.
(c) By avoiding trashy novels.
(d) By taking initiative to improve every day.

2. What does the etymology of words mean?
(a) The sound of words.
(b) The biology of words.
(c) The written scripts.
(d) The history of words.

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

4. How many people are in the American Heritage Dictionary Usage Panel?
(a) 10 writers.
(b) 14 writers and poets.
(c) 1000 writers, poets, and editors.
(d) 104 writers, poets, editors, and teachers.

5. What trap do journalists and editors fall into often?
(a) Using cliches and made up words.
(b) Using too many commas.
(c) Not doing grammar checks.
(d) Usin too many dashes.

Short Answer Questions

1. Why is consistency in verb tense so important?

2. Who is the author talking to at the beginning of the book?

3. Which is the simplest sentence?

4. What does Zissner say is a common desire of every writer?

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

(see the answer key)

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