CPW Editing and Revision Techniques 2

Question 1

Which editing pass is best suited for identifying awkward sentence rhythm and pacing issues?

Accepted Answer

Line editing

Answer

Line editing focuses on sentence-level style, rhythm, and flow rather than macro structure or surface errors.

Question 2

A writer reads their draft aloud and notices a sentence feels breathless and rushed. The most likely cause is:

Accepted Answer

Excessive subordinate clauses with no pauses

Answer

Stacked subordinate clauses deny readers natural breathing points, creating a rushed, breathless reading experience.

Question 3

During revision, a writer cuts a paragraph that was accurate but not relevant to the thesis. This technique is called:

Accepted Answer

Killing your darlings

Answer

'Killing your darlings' means removing content you like but that doesn't serve the piece's central argument or purpose.

Question 4

Which of the following best describes the purpose of a reverse outline during revision?

Accepted Answer

To check that each paragraph's actual content matches the document's intended structure

Answer

A reverse outline maps what each paragraph actually says, revealing structural gaps or redundancies not visible during drafting.

Question 5

A copyeditor marks 'awk' next to a sentence. What does this notation most commonly signal?

Accepted Answer

The sentence is awkward in phrasing or construction

Answer

'Awk' is a standard editorial notation indicating a sentence sounds unnatural or is clumsily constructed.

(CPW) Certified Professional Writer Practice Test