Writing Skills & Composition Flashcards

Which sentence demonstrates correct use of a semicolon?

Answer: She studied hard; she passed the exam.

A semicolon correctly joins two independent clauses without a coordinating conjunction.

In a formal essay, which transition best introduces a contrasting idea?

Answer: However

'However' signals contrast between ideas, while the others signal addition, similarity, or result.

Which revision best improves the clarity of this sentence: 'The report was written by the manager that was confusing.'?

Answer: The report, written by the manager, was confusing.

Using a nonrestrictive clause clarifies that the report, not the manager, was confusing.

What is the primary purpose of a thesis statement in an essay?

Answer: To state the main argument or central claim of the essay

A thesis statement presents the writer's central claim, which the body of the essay then supports.

Which of the following is an example of passive voice?

Answer: A delicious meal was prepared by the chef.

Passive voice places the object of the action in the subject position, using a form of 'be' plus a past participle.

Which sentence uses parallel structure correctly?

Answer: She likes hiking, swimming, and running daily.

Parallel structure requires all items in a series to use the same grammatical form; here all three use gerunds.

What does 'coherence' mean in the context of writing?

Answer: Ensuring ideas flow logically and are clearly connected

Coherence refers to the logical flow and clear connection of ideas within and between paragraphs.