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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. What happens when a product of writing is never read?

2. What is an alternative way of showing astonishment in writing?

3. What is it that the bad writers mentioned above do that makes their writing terrible?

4. What ability do great authors have?

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

Short Essay Questions

1. What happens to the reader when he or she reads cluttered writing?

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

3. What is unity in writing?

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

5. What are Zinsser's thoughts on the writing profession?

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

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

8. What skills does an interviewer need to possess?

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

10. What are some examples of bad writing that has to be read?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

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 2

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 3

Do you believe that everyone can write well as Zinsser mentions? Or do you think that a writer must have a natural gift for the written word? Explain.

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