CPW Writing Techniques & Style 2

Question 1

Which sentence best demonstrates the 'show, don't tell' principle?

Accepted Answer

Her hands trembled as she gripped the podium, sweat beading on her forehead.

Answer

'Show, don't tell' uses specific sensory details and actions rather than labeling emotions directly.

Question 2

What is the primary function of a topic sentence in a paragraph?

Accepted Answer

To state the paragraph's main idea and focus

Answer

A topic sentence introduces and controls the central idea that the rest of the paragraph develops.

Question 3

When should a writer use the passive voice intentionally?

Accepted Answer

When the agent is unknown, unimportant, or deliberately withheld

Answer

Passive voice is appropriate when the doer of an action is irrelevant, unknown, or strategically omitted.

Question 4

What distinguishes a 'loose' sentence from a 'periodic' sentence?

Accepted Answer

Loose sentences state the main clause first; periodic sentences delay it until the end

Answer

A loose sentence front-loads its main idea, while a periodic sentence withholds the main clause for emphasis at the end.

Question 5

Which revision best eliminates the dangling modifier in 'Running through the park, the trees looked beautiful'?

Accepted Answer

Running through the park, she noticed the trees looked beautiful.

Answer

The modifier 'Running through the park' must attach to the subject performing that action, which is 'she,' not 'the trees.'

(CPW) Certified Professional Writer Practice Test