Writing Skills Flashcards

Which sentence most effectively uses a transitional phrase to show contrast?

Answer: Despite studying diligently, she failed the test.

The phrase 'Despite studying diligently' signals contrast between effort and outcome, making the relationship clear.

A student writes: 'The scientist made a discovery that was very important and very significant.' What is the primary weakness of this sentence?

Answer: It contains redundant words

'Important' and 'significant' are synonyms here, making their combined use redundant.

Which revision best improves the clarity of: 'The report was written by my partner and I submitted it late.'?

Answer: My partner wrote the report, which I submitted late.

This revision uses a relative clause to cleanly separate the two actions and clarify who did what.

In an argumentative essay, which paragraph structure is most effective?

Answer: Claim → Evidence → Analysis

Leading with a clear claim, followed by evidence and analysis, guides the reader through your argument logically.

Which sentence correctly punctuates a nonrestrictive (nonessential) clause?

Answer: My sister, who lives in Boston, is visiting.

Nonrestrictive clauses are set off by commas on both sides because they add extra, not essential, information.

Which word choice best replaces 'said' to convey that a speaker delivered information forcefully?

Answer: asserted

'Asserted' specifically suggests a strong, confident, forceful delivery of a statement.

A student's essay introduction ends: 'This essay will discuss climate change.' What is the main problem with this thesis?

Answer: It lacks a debatable claim

A strong thesis must make an arguable point, not merely announce a topic that will be discussed.