Writing Clearly and Concisely Flashcards

Questions and Answers

What does organization in writing involve?

Ordering your thoughts logically (correct)

Using complex vocabulary

Writing lengthy paragraphs

None of the above

What is the principle behind keeping a paper's length appropriate?

Number of pages needed to effectively communicate the primary ideas.

Headings must always be labeled with numbers or letters.

False

The prime objective of scientific reporting is _.

clear communication. Signup and view all the answers

What does seriation help the reader understand?

The organization of key points within sections, paragraphs, and sentences. Signup and view all the answers

What should be done when using lists in writing?

Use bullets instead of ordinal numbers Signup and view all the answers

What is the use of commas in lists?

To separate three or more elements that do not have internal commas. Signup and view all the answers

Using noun strings creates clarity in writing.

False Signup and view all the answers

What is the effect of punctuation marks in writing?

Contribute to continuity Signup and view all the answers

What should be aimed for in terms of writing style?

An interesting and compelling style. Signup and view all the answers

What is a suggested option for avoiding creative writing in scientific prose?

Reading by a colleague. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Writing Clearly and Concisely

Organization: Logical order of thoughts at both paragraph and sentence levels enhances writing impact; consider length and structure for findings.
Length: Effective communication requires concise pages; prioritize clarity, limit data displays, reduce repetition, and write actively to maintain a paper's focus.
Headings for Manuscripts: A well-organized structure facilitates clear communication, allowing readers to identify key points and track arguments; employ consistent levels and at least two subsections per section.
Levels of Heading: Use the highest level heading for each section, maintaining hierarchy throughout the manuscript.
Introduction: The manuscript's introduction should be unmarked by a specific heading.
Headings Format: Avoid numbering; number of levels should reflect manuscript complexity; use level 1 for singular headings.
Seriation: Organizes key points in a discernible format; paragraphs or sentences in a series take an Arabic numeral followed by a period for clarity.
Number Lists: Avoid ordinal indicators for series; use bullet points like squares or circles instead for items in a list.
Series in Sentences: Utilize lower case letters in parentheses for elements within a series.
Commas and Semicolons: Commas separate three or more items without internal commas; use semicolons for elements that have internal commas.
Bulleted Lists: Treat each bullet as a full sentence; capitalize the start and end with a semicolon for standardization.
Objective of Scientific Reporting: Clear communication through orderly presentation and precise expression is crucial.
Continuity: Punctuation creates relationships between ideas; overuse may frustrate, while underuse can confuse; utilize transitional words to enhance flow.
Smoothness of Expression: Avoid creative writing devices in scientific prose to maintain clarity.
Avoiding Creative Writing Pitfalls: Strategies include peer reading, revisiting drafts, and consistent verb tense usage.
Past Tense: Use past tense for describing results achieved.
Present Tense: Employ present tense for discussing conclusions and the implications of results.
Noun Strings: Multiple nouns modifying one another can create abruptness in writing.
Untangling Noun Strings: Reorganize noun strings by placing the final noun at the beginning and filling in with appropriate verbs and prepositions for clarity.
Tone: Aim for an engaging style that reflects personal investment; write with a specific reader in mind to educate and persuade effectively.
Economy of Expression: Communicate succinctly by omitting unnecessary redundancy, tightening lengthy papers.

Description

This quiz features flashcards focused on key concepts in clear and concise writing. It covers important elements such as organization and length, helping learners understand how to effectively communicate their ideas. Perfect for anyone looking to enhance their writing skills.