Writing Non-literary Texts

Study Notes

Writing Non-literary Texts

Accuracy - Be precise in data, calculations, and statements to avoid confusion and doubt.
- Example: Instead of "many people”, say “70% of surveyed individuals.“
Brevity - Be direct, avoid redundancies, elaborate language, and flowery words.
- Example: Replace “Due to the fact that” with “Because."
Coherence - Use a logical sentence arrangement with smooth transitions.
- Example: Use phrases like “Furthermore,” or “On the other hand,” to connect ideas.
Confidence - Establish credibility by being an authority on the subject.
Dignity - Use formal language to convey authority as a writer.
- Example: Avoid slang; use "terminate" instead of "end."
Emphasis - Effectively use repetition and formatting to highlight important ideas.
- Example: Use bold or italics to emphasize key points.
Facility - Write clearly and arrange data logically to enhance reader understanding.
- Example: Present information from least to most important, or vice versa.
Grammatical Correctness - Adhere to grammar rules to maintain credibility.
- Example: Use subject-verb agreement and proper punctuation throughout.
Honesty - Acknowledge the contributions of others to demonstrate intellectual honesty.
- Example: Use citations for research or quotes from other authors.
Illustration - Use graphic aids like charts, tables, and images to enhance comprehension.
- Example: Include a pie chart to illustrate data distribution visually.
Judgment - Collect relevant and concise data, focusing on quality over quantity.
- Example: Prioritize key statistics that support your main argument.
Knowledge - Analyze and interpret data accurately.
- Example: Provide insights based on data trends rather than merely reporting numbers.
Logic - Organize the report systematically, ensuring agreement among concepts.
- Example: Present hypotheses followed by evidence supporting each one.
Mechanical Neatness - Use proper formatting and presentation for clarity.
- Example: Ensure consistent margins and font styles throughout the document.
Normal Procedure - Present factual, objective, and useful information in a straightforward manner.
- Example: Follow an acceptable arrangement of the report's different parts (Title, Objectives/Goals, Introduction).
Objectivity - Present facts and information without personal bias or subjective opinion.
- Example: Use data, statistics, and credible sources to support your claims. Avoid emotional language.
Planning - Organize ideas, outline content, and determine the structure before writing.
- Example: Create a clear outline that breaks down the main points and subpoints of your document.
Qualifications - Ensure the validity and relevance of the information presented.
- Example: Use information from reputable and authoritative sources, like academic journals, government publications and experts.
Revision - Review and improve the document for clarity, coherence, and quality.
- Example: Read through the document multiple times, focusing first on content and organization, then on grammar and formatting.
Straight Sentences - Use clear, direct sentences for conveying information, instructions, or arguments.
- Example: Use clear and direct sentences to convey complex ideas simply.
Thoroughness - Ensure all relevant points are covered in detail.
- Example: Complete reports should avoid ambiguous statements.