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This test consists of 5 short answer questions, 10 short essay questions, and 1 (of 3) essay topics.

Short Answer Questions

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

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

3. Can a writer's style be affected to the reader?

4. What is the old view of nonfiction?

5. What is another important characteristic of a writer?

Short Essay Questions

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

2. When can grammar rules be broken?

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

4. What is the major problem with American writing in terms of simplicity?

5. Why does Zinsser want writers to cut out ornamental writing?

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

7. Who does Zinsser say are the worst writers guilty of clutter?

8. What does the surgeon in Chapter 1 think about writing?

9. What does the craft of writing consist of?

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

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

What do you think about Zinsser's attitude towards writing, especially in terms of his reaction to the doctor that loves to write at the beginning of the book? At times it feels as though he is all business and no fun. Do you find writing a chore or a pleasure?

Essay Topic 2

How have you heard the Eiffel Tower described? Regardless of whether you've seen it or not, describe it a different way, positive or negative. Avoid cliches.

Essay Topic 3

Timing is important in humor writing because the reader should always be surprised. What is another thing to consider when writing humorously? How does humor evolve? Does it evolve?

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