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

2. What is a natural inclination for writers when they start a piece?
(a) They ramble through an unnecessary introduction.
(b) They assume the readers know what they are writing about.
(c) Writers assume readers know nothing about what they are writing about.
(d) They don't give enough background information.

3. Why is consistency in verb tense so important?
(a) It is important for slower readers to follow along.
(b) It is important so that verbs don't get confused with nouns.
(c) It is important for the development of characters, and to set up a plot.
(d) Very tense consistency is important so that the reader does not become lost in the timing of events.

4. Should exclamation points be used in serious writing?
(a) They should be used sparingly. One per paragraph is fine.
(b) They should be sprinkled into paragraphs like salt and pepper. The more the better.
(c) Only serious writing has serious exclamation points. How else would people understand astonishment?
(d) They should be avoided unless absolutely necessary.

5. What is one task that a good writer constantly does?
(a) Sends manuscripts out like crazy.
(b) Takes writing classes often.
(c) Participates in writing workshops.
(d) Reads contemporary and classic works of other writers.

Short Answer Questions

1. How rigid are the lines between proper and improper English usage?

2. What does the etymology of words mean?

3. What is a dash useful for?

4. What could cause a writer to write unclear?

5. How much research does Zinsser recommend for an article?

Short Essay Questions

1. In what point of view should a writer start writing? Why?

2. Why does the English language change all the time? Can you give an example of a language that never changes and why?

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

4. Do gimmicks usually work in good writing?

5. What do all good writers do when it comes to improving?

6. What does the craft of writing consist of?

7. Why does Zinsser advise against using exclamation points for astonishment?

8. Why are rhythm and sound important in writing? What should writers do to improve this aspect of their writing?

9. What political period was the worst as far as bad writing?

10. When can some writers break grammar rules?

(see the answer keys)

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