Introducing your subject(s) is essential to effective writing. The introduction is not necessarily restricted to one paragraph. However, whether it is one paragraph or more, the introduction has essential functions.
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Audience Definition Definition
Introductions Examples Definition
Word Choice/Diction is the precise choice and use of words appropriate to your purpose and audience. Clarity is crucial to effective writing. Do not use words that seem "impressive" or "learned." Use words that are precise to your meaning. Use this dictionary onelook.com to discover precise and multiple definitions, or to find synonyms for words.
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Effective sentences are smooth (fluent) sentences. Sentence smoothness (fluency) establishes the "flow" or continuity of the ideas in sentences. Sentence fluency consists of syntax and coherence. Sentence syntax is the order in which words are arranged in a sentence to convey the meaning of the sentence. Sentence coherence is the continuity between sentences created by transitions. There are four basic methods to create sentence coherence:
If your sentences lack fluency as the result of awkward syntax or faulty coherence, then the development of your ideas and your writing will lack clarity and sequence. Many problems with sentence structure result from confusion about active and passive voice. The misuse of passive voice frequently creates awkward syntax.
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Sentence structure
Syntax Definition Definition
Coherence Definition/Examples Procedure Examples
Sentence smoothness (fluency) Examples
Sentence variation Examples
Following the introduction are the paragraphs that organize and develop the subject of your writing. Typically, a paragraph is a group of sentences that are intended to develop a single idea. A topic sentence unifies and organizes the paragraph. However, depending on your purpose, paragraph organization and development may vary. The topic sentence unifies the paragraph with the thesis. It also organizes the information in the paragraph. There are also transitions between paragraphs. Paragraph transitions clarify the relationship of one paragraph to another.
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Topic sentences Examples
Effective paragraphs Tips Tips Tips
Paragraph transitions Tips
Many writing assignments need a conclusion to indicate that your writing is complete, that you did not simply decide to stop writing. The conclusion conveys a sense of completeness to your writing. As with the introduction, you have several choices of ways to complete your writing.
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Conclusions Tips
Another important element of effective writing is voice. Voice is the element of writing that conveys your unique understanding of the subject of your writing. Your voice "speaks" to your audience. It is the "personality" of your writing. Your voice should be natural and honest, not forced and awkward. Your voice reflects your ability to use language to write about the subject that is not written in a "monotone." It is the quality that separates your writing from other "anonymous" students. To determine whether or not your writing has a voice, consider these questions as you, or someone else, reads your writing:
Does my writing reflect an awareness of my audience? Does my sentence fluency and word choice sound "honest" and reflect my unique perspective?
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The writing rules of the road are grammar, punctuation, and mechanics. If your writing doesn't conform to these rules, then you will not be able to communicate your ideas clearly.
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Grammar, punctuation and mechanics Examples Examples Examples
Common errors Examples
Commas and semicolons Examples
Correct verb tense and verb agreement Definition Definition Examples Examples
Pronouns and pronoun agreement Definition Examples
Punctuating dialogue between speakers
You may want to look at this comprehensive Guide to Grammar and Writing, which can easily be used as a "field guide."