Writing and Communication Skills Flashcards
6 cards from real AQL practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 6 Writing and Communication Skills flashcards as text
Which sentence contains a dangling modifier?
Answer: Running to class, the bell rang before she arrived.
In 'Running to class, the bell rang,' the participial phrase 'Running to class' incorrectly modifies 'the bell' rather than 'she.'
What is the correct use of a semicolon in academic writing?
Answer: Both B and C
Semicolons are used to join independent clauses ('I studied; I passed the exam') and to separate list items that already contain commas.
What is the main purpose of a concluding paragraph in an academic essay?
Answer: To restate the thesis, summarize key points, and leave the reader with a final thought
A conclusion synthesizes the essay's key arguments, restates the thesis in fresh language, and provides a closing thought or call to action.
What is the difference between 'affect' and 'effect'?
Answer: 'Affect' is usually a verb meaning to influence; 'effect' is usually a noun meaning the result
'Affect' is typically used as a verb ('stress affects performance') while 'effect' is typically a noun ('the effect of stress on performance').
Which paragraph structure places the main point first, followed by supporting details?
Answer: Deductive (top-down)
A deductive or top-down paragraph structure starts with the topic sentence (main point) and then provides supporting evidence and details.
What is 'paraphrasing' in academic writing?
Answer: Restating someone else's idea in your own words while citing the source
Paraphrasing means rewording a source's idea in your own language and sentence structure, while still crediting the original author.