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This quiz consists of 5 multiple choice and 5 short answer questions through Part IV: Chapter 23 A Writer's Decision.

Multiple Choice Questions

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

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

3. How rigid are the lines between proper and improper English usage?
(a) There is a grey area, though the need for proper English is most important.
(b) There are no lines at all. Every writer has a poetic license to do with words what he or she pleases.
(c) They are very soft, and not rigid at all.
(d) They are very rigid and one cannot cross the line.

4. What is an example of a time when bad writing HAS to be read?
(a) Corporate memos or technical writing.
(b) Online writing.
(c) In the newspaper.
(d) In English class.

5. When does the writing start for a nonfiction article?
(a) It starts when the interviewing process and research is complete.
(b) It starts whenever the writer is ready to start.
(c) It starts before interviewing to set up the article paragraphs.
(d) It starts before the interview but after the research.

Short Answer Questions

1. How does Zinsser create his final products?

2. What is a dash useful for?

3. What advice does Zinsser give to employees who want to change business writing?

4. Why should interview questions be written before the interview?

5. What do writers focus on most?

(see the answer key)

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