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This test consists of 5 multiple choice questions, 5 short answer questions, and 10 short essay questions.

Multiple Choice Questions

1. What should every paragraph end with?
(a) All paragraphs should repeat the first sentence.
(b) All paragraphs should end with a summary of the entire paragraph.
(c) Every paragraph should end with a period.
(d) Every paragraph needs to have a hook or a cliffhanger that will lead the reader into the next paragraph.

2. What are the two components of the original Roget's Thesaurus?
(a) A list of synonyms and their definitions with pictures on one side.
(b) Antonyms with very in depth definitions.
(c) A dictionary of antonyms, and one of synonyms.
(d) A dictionary listing of words, and a numberd section with synonyms arranged in broad concepts.

3. What is the main thing readers think when starting an article?
(a) They want to know whether it is worth it to read the article.
(b) They want to know how soon they will find the answer to the original thesis question of an article.
(c) They want to know how long it will take them to read the article.
(d) They want to know whether the writer is credible or not.

4. What is another important characteristic of a writer?
(a) To sound out simple sentences.
(b) To sound out simple syllables.
(c) To be aware of the way words are spelled.
(d) To be aware of the rhythm and sound of words together.

5. What is an alternative way of showing astonishment in writing?
(a) Typing in asterisks with verbs like *gasp*.
(b) Writing in all caps.
(c) Writing in excessive dialogue where people and characters say they are astonished.
(d) A well written sentence does not need excalamtion marks. The words themselves should be the intensity of the sentence.

Short Answer Questions

1. When does the writing start for a nonfiction article?

2. What is Zinsser's preferred method for interviewing?

3. What is an example of a hit book that was rejected several times?

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

5. Why is the English language so easy to use when writing?

Short Essay Questions

1. Why is nonfiction now considered to be literature?

2. What skills does an interviewer need to possess?

3. Why are journalists good about de-cluttering their writing?

4. What does Zinsser make of this distinction of fiction versus nonfiction in the literary world?

5. Why are interviews so important to an article?

6. When is it acceptable for a new word to enter the English languages American Heritage Dictionary? Can you give an example?

7. Writers are told to study the market before submitting pieces. Why is this advice irrelevant?

8. How much information should a writer gather before writing a piece? Why is it important?

9. Does Zinsser believe it is important for an author's personality to shine through his or her writing?

10. Why does Zinsser avoid using journalism as a model for good writers?

(see the answer keys)

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