Grammarly Certified Advanced Grammar and Language Specialist Professional and Business Writing

Question 1

Which opening line is most appropriate for a formal business email?

Accepted Answer

Dear Ms. Johnson, I am writing to follow up on our recent discussion.

Answer

Formal business emails use a professional salutation, the recipient's title and last name, and a clear statement of purpose.

Question 2

What does 'per our conversation' typically signal in business writing?

Accepted Answer

A polite reference to a prior discussion used to provide context

Answer

While sometimes perceived as passive-aggressive, 'per our conversation' is formally used to reference a prior discussion and introduce a follow-up.

Question 3

Which is the best subject line for a business email requesting urgent action?

Accepted Answer

Action Required by Friday: Budget Approval for Q2 Project

Answer

Effective subject lines are specific, include the deadline, and clearly state the action required without excessive punctuation.

Question 4

In business writing, what does the 'bottom line up front' (BLUF) principle recommend?

Accepted Answer

State the main point or requested action in the first sentence

Answer

BLUF is a military and business communication principle: lead with the conclusion or request, then provide supporting details.

Question 5

Which phrase should be avoided in professional business writing because it is a cliché?

Accepted Answer

Going forward, we will synergize our core competencies.

Answer

Business jargon like 'synergize our core competencies' is vague and clichéd; replace it with specific, plain-language statements.

Grammarly Certified Advanced Grammar and Language Specialist Practice Test