English
abstractions synopsis concrete colloquial verbatim metaphors succinct glib syntax clichsOn Being a WriterWant to be an effective writer? If you do, keep in mind that good writers are extremely careful to make every word count. Choosing their words with care, they try to be as _____1____ as possible, never using two words when one will do. They are more likely, for example, to say now instead of at the present time and before rather than back in the past.Skillful writers are also careful about how they handle _____2_____. If they use words like power, bravery, and dedication, they make sure to nail down those words with_____3_____ illustrations. They know that general ideas not anchored in specific details can prove confusing and lead to a communication breakdown between author and reader. General statements not followed by specific explanations can also make readers suspicious. A writer who claims our government has lost touch with the people without offering specific illustrations of or reasons for that claim is likely to be considered overly _____4_____ and perhaps untrustworthy.In addition to directness and clarity, good writers also pay attention to _____5_____, making sure they don't lull the reader to sleep by using only sentences that begin with subject and verb. They are also attentive to imagery. They try to use original _____6_____ that help readers "see" the intended meaning more clearly. The emphasis here is on the word original: Writers who care about their work also avoid _____7_____. They know they arouse the readers' mistrust if they use tired expressions like "avid reader," "dark and stormy night," and "full of sound and fury." Writers who care about writing never plagiarize. Even if they offer only a _____8_____ of someone's idea rather than quoting them _____9_____, writers with experience acknowledge their sources. They know that writing is hard and refuse to take credit for words or ideas that are not their own.Lastly, writers match their tone to their audience and purpose. If they are writing an encyclopedia entry, they are careful to remain somewhat formal and distant from the reader. But if they are writing a movie review for their neighborhood paper, they will readily switch to a more _____10_____ and friendlier tone. HELP ASP