Journalism Leads Quiz: Identify Different Types and Avoid Verbal Deadwood

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Questions and Answers

Which of the following is a key rule for effective writing?

Favor long, convoluted sentences over short ones

Use complex and obscure words to showcase your vocabulary

Use familiar words that your audience understands (correct)

Include as much verbal deadwood as possible

What is the purpose of omitting "verbal deadwood" in writing?

To showcase your extensive vocabulary

To make your writing more verbose and detailed

To achieve conciseness and clarity (correct)

To add unnecessary words and phrases

Which of the following is an example of "verbal deadwood" provided in the text?

Signed

Married

Escaped

All of the above (correct)

Why is it recommended to keep sentences short in effective writing?

To make it easier for the reader to follow and understand Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a recommendation from the text for effective writing?

Employ complex vocabulary Signup and view all the answers

What should be the primary goal when choosing words for effective writing?

Using words the reader is likely to understand Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of a quotation lead in writing?

To provide a striking or attention-grabbing opening using someone's direct quote Signup and view all the answers

What is the main purpose of the 'punch lead' in writing?

To present a short, forceful, and astonishing opening statement Signup and view all the answers

According to the rules for effective writing, what should a writer do first?

Think clearly about what they want to say and their purpose for writing Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a recommended approach for getting to the point in writing?

Delay revealing the main point to build suspense and intrigue Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is an effective technique for improving the clarity and readability of writing?

Considering the audience and writing for their understanding Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommended approach for the beginning of a piece of journalistic writing?

Come to the point quickly and get the reader into the midst of things Signup and view all the answers

Why are short paragraphs better?

They are visually easier on the eye, act as a brake on the writer, and signal a new step in the subject development. Signup and view all the answers

Which sentence illustrates the active voice?

Some senators demanded the resignation of Secretary Macaraig. Signup and view all the answers

What is the benefit of using the active voice in writing?

It gives the writing a natural order of thought and a punch. Signup and view all the answers

What should be done with a paragraph after it has been written?

Check if it can be further broken into two separate paragraphs. Signup and view all the answers

Which statement is true about effective writing, according to the text?

Revision is an essential part of the writing process. Signup and view all the answers

What is the main reason for avoiding too many relationships in writing?

It increases the effort for the reader and the chance of misunderstanding. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Effective Writing Rules

Omit "verbal deadwood" to eliminate unnecessary words and phrases that do not add meaning to the text.
"Verbal deadwood" examples include phrases like "It is interesting to note that..." or "In my opinion..."
Keep sentences short to improve clarity and readability.
Choose words that precisely convey the intended meaning, with the primary goal of achieving accuracy and clarity.

Leads and Openings

A quotation lead is used to add human interest and credibility to the writing.
A "punch lead" is used to grab the reader's attention with a surprising or provocative statement.
A writer should start by getting to the point immediately, avoiding unnecessary introductions or background information.

Writing Techniques

Use active voice to improve clarity and readability, as it is more direct and engaging than passive voice.
Example of active voice: "The dog bit the man."
The benefit of using active voice is that it makes the writing more concise and easier to understand.
Revise and edit written paragraphs to ensure they are clear, concise, and effective.

Writing Strategy

Use short paragraphs to improve readability and keep the reader engaged.
The recommended approach for the beginning of a piece of journalistic writing is to get to the point immediately.
Avoid using too many relationships in writing, as it can make the text confusing and unclear.
Effective writing should prioritize clarity and readability above all else.