OSC Business Writing 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: What is the 'you' attitude in business writing?
- Always using the word 'you' in every sentence
- Focusing on the reader's needs and benefits rather than the writer's (Correct answer)
- Writing in second-person only
- Addressing complaints defensively
Correct answer: Focusing on the reader's needs and benefits rather than the writer's
The 'you' attitude frames messages from the reader's perspective, emphasizing what the information means for them.
Question 2: A cover letter for a job application should be:
- A copy of the resume
- A targeted one-page introduction highlighting relevant skills and motivation (Correct answer)
- A list of all previous employers
- An informal personal biography
Correct answer: A targeted one-page introduction highlighting relevant skills and motivation
A cover letter introduces the applicant, connects their skills to the job requirements, and expresses genuine interest in the role.
Question 3: In a business proposal, the 'scope of work' section defines:
- Payment terms only
- The specific tasks, deliverables, and boundaries of the project (Correct answer)
- The contractor's biography
- References from past clients
Correct answer: The specific tasks, deliverables, and boundaries of the project
The scope of work clearly outlines what will and won't be included, preventing misunderstandings and scope creep.
Question 4: What is the appropriate closing for a formal business letter to someone you know?
- Later,
- Sincerely, (Correct answer)
- XOXO,
- Peace,
Correct answer: Sincerely,
'Sincerely' is a widely accepted formal closing that is appropriate for most professional correspondence.
Question 5: Using bullet points in business documents primarily helps to:
- Make documents look longer
- Improve readability by presenting lists in a scannable format (Correct answer)
- Replace all paragraph writing
- Add visual decoration
Correct answer: Improve readability by presenting lists in a scannable format
Bullet points break up dense text and allow readers to quickly scan and absorb listed information.
Question 6: Which of the following is an example of an effective complaint letter opening?
- This is the worst service I have ever received!
- I am writing to bring a service issue to your attention and request a resolution. (Correct answer)
- You people are incompetent.
- I don't know why I bother.
Correct answer: I am writing to bring a service issue to your attention and request a resolution.
An effective complaint letter opens professionally, states the issue clearly, and signals the desired outcome.
OSC Business Writing 2
What is the 'you' attitude in business writing?