Clarity and Precise Language Flashcards
7 cards from real AWA practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Clarity and Precise Language flashcards as text
What is the effect of using the phrase 'due to the fact that' instead of 'because' in analytical writing?
Answer: It is wordier without adding clarity or meaning.
'Because' conveys the same causal meaning in one word, making 'due to the fact that' needlessly verbose.
Which sentence best demonstrates precise language when describing causation?
Answer: Studies show that a 10% increase in per-pupil spending correlates with a 7% rise in graduation rates.
Specific percentages and a named metric (graduation rates) make the causal claim concrete and testable.
In AWA analysis, what does it mean to 'define key terms'?
Answer: To clarify the specific meaning you are using for ambiguous or central words in your argument
Defining key terms removes ambiguity about the scope and meaning of the concepts central to your argument.
Which of the following is an example of an absolute claim that weakens analytical writing?
Answer: All managers who implement this approach will see improved performance.
The word 'all' makes a sweeping universal claim that a single counterexample can disprove, undermining the argument's credibility.
What is the difference between 'affect' and 'effect' as it relates to precise word choice in AWA?
Answer: 'Affect' is typically a verb meaning to influence; 'effect' is typically a noun meaning result.
Confusing these words—'affect' (verb: to influence) and 'effect' (noun: result)—signals imprecision and can alter the sentence's meaning.
Which revision eliminates the euphemism that obscures meaning in: 'The company underwent a workforce restructuring'?
Answer: The company laid off 300 workers from its manufacturing division.
Replacing the euphemism 'workforce restructuring' with the specific action ('laid off 300 workers') makes the meaning unmistakable.
In analytical writing, which strategy best improves the clarity of a complex sentence with multiple clauses?
Answer: Break the sentence into two or more shorter sentences, each making one clear point.
Splitting an overloaded sentence into shorter sentences forces each idea to stand on its own, improving readability and precision.