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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. There is another element in the making of a good writer according to King's statements. What is it?
(a) To write a lot.
(b) To write frequently.
(c) To write when the muse strikes.
(d) To have definite writing goals.

2. King claims __________ is the second most important tool in a writer's toolbox.
(a) Beauty of expression.
(b) Grammar.
(c) Theme.
(d) A good plot.

3. How does King use this advice from his uncle?
(a) He falls in love with tools and creates his own toolbox for chores around the house.
(b) He buys new tools every time he receives a check for his work.
(c) He applies it to his writing.
(d) He always takes all his tools when he has to fix something.

4. According to King, what characteristic should a writer's space have?
(a) A simple place with little or no distractions.
(b) A quiet place with a radio and a computer.
(c) An office space with files, computer, printer, and a telephone.
(d) A calming venue with only a telephone and a computer.

5. Where does King get the idea for the novel Misery?
(a) From his wife.
(b) From a book he was reading.
(c) From a TV show.
(d) From a dream.

Short Answer Questions

1. What does King believe about writers who are too busy to read?

2. What advice does King give on paragraphs?

3. How does King paint the main character from The Dead Zone?

4. Does King feel that a writer should blindly follow all the rules in the book he recommends?

5. What does King help his uncle fix as a child?

Short Essay Questions

1. What inference can you make from King's claim in On Writing that a writer should have a specific space in which to work?

2. In the chapter, On Writing, King says characters should be multi-dimensional. What motive is there for trying to give all characters evil, as well as good, characteristics?

3. Why do you think King stresses the importance of writing a lot in On Writing?

4. What evidence can you find to support King's claim that plot is less necessary than many would have the writer believe?

5. What is King trying to tell the aspiring writer about finding his voice?

6. Both with vocabulary and 'above all else' King emphasizes honesty. Explain 'honesty' according to King and in your own words.

7. Explain the significance of King's statement that a good writer can become an excellent writer, but a bad writer will always be a bad writer according to King in On Writing.

8. What is the second most important tool according to King?

9. How would you evaluate King's advice to aspiring writers in the chapters, What Writing Is, and Toolbox?

10. In the chapter, On Writing, King discusses symbolism and theme as elements best ignored in first drafts. What is the relationship between symbolism and theme in King's work?

(see the answer keys)

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