Writing Improvement
Writing Improvement Exercises II
18 points
Instructions: The best way to complete these exercises online is to download the file and save it as an .rtf document. Type your changes directly into the worksheet, directly under each sentence and preferably in a color other than black.. Re-save your document, and then upload it through the Blackboard link.
Revising Sentences. Revise the following sentences to remedy sentence fragments, run-on sentences. and comma splices.
22. Because 90 percent of all business transactions involve written messages. Good writing skills are critical.
24. Major soft drink companies considered a new pricing strategy, they tested vending machines that raise prices in hot weather.
25. Thirsty customers may think that variable pricing is unfair they may also refuse to use the machine.
Emphasis. For each of the following sentences, circle (a) or (b).
- Which is more emphatic?
a. Our dress code is fine.
b. Our dress code reflects common sense and good taste.
- Which de-emphasizes the refusal?
a. Although our resources are committed to other projects this year, we hope to be able to contribute to your worthy cause next year.
b. We can’t contribute to your charity this year.
- Which sentence gives more emphasis to leadership?
a. Jason has many admirable qualities, but most important is his leadership skill.
b. Jason has many admirable qualities, including leadership skill, good judgment, and patience.
Active-Voice. Business writing is more forceful if it uses active-voice verbs. Revise the following sentences so that verbs are in the active voice. Put the emphasis on the doer of the action. Add subjects if necessary.
- Employees were given their checks at 4 pm every Friday by the manager.
- New spices and cooking techniques were tried by McDonald’s to improve its hamburgers.
Our new company logo was designed by my boss.
Passive-Voice. When indirectness or tact is required, use passive-voice verbs. Revise the following sentences so that they are in the passive voice.
41. The auditor discovered a computational error in the company’s tax figures.
42. We discovered the error too late to correct the balance sheet.
43. Stacy did not submit the accounting statement on time.
Parallelism. Revise the following sentences so that their parts are balanced.
45. (Hint: match adjectives) To be hired, an applicant must be reliable, creative, and show enthusiasm.
46. (Hint: match active voice) If you have decided to cancel our service, please cut your credit card in half and the pieces should be returned to us.
50. (Hint: match –ing verbs) Sending an email establishes a more permanent record than to make a telephone call.
Dangling and Misplaced Modifiers. Revise the following sentences to avoid dangling and misplaced modifiers.
51. After leaving the midtown meeting, Angela’s car would not start.
53. To complete the project on time, a new deadline was established by the team.
55. Michelle Mitchell presented a talk about workplace drug problems in our boardroom.