Writing Excellence Flashcards

Which sentence is free of comma splice errors?

Answer: The library closes at nine; students should finish their work by then.

Option B correctly uses a semicolon to join two independent clauses, avoiding both a comma splice and a run-on sentence.

What does 'concision' mean in the context of effective writing?

Answer: Conveying ideas using the fewest words necessary without sacrificing clarity

Concision means expressing ideas efficiently, eliminating unnecessary words while preserving meaning and clarity.

Which of the following is an example of hedging language, commonly expected in academic writing?

Answer: The results suggest that exercise may reduce symptoms of depression.

Hedging language ('suggest,' 'may') acknowledges uncertainty and avoids overstating conclusions, which is standard in academic writing.

A writer notices that a paragraph has three unrelated ideas. What is the best revision strategy?

Answer: Expand each idea into its own focused paragraph

Each paragraph should develop one central idea; splitting the paragraph ensures unity and allows each idea adequate development.

Which sentence uses active voice?

Answer: The research team completed the report before the deadline.

In active voice, the subject ('the research team') performs the action; in passive voice, the subject receives the action.

What is the function of a counterargument in a persuasive essay?

Answer: To acknowledge opposing views and then refute them, strengthening credibility

Addressing and refuting counterarguments demonstrates the writer's awareness of the full debate and strengthens the overall argument.

Which citation practice violates academic integrity standards?

Answer: Changing a few words in a source passage and citing it as a paraphrase

Minimal word substitution without genuine paraphrasing is considered patchwork plagiarism, even if a citation is provided.