In addition to substance, unity, organization, and transitions, a paragraph or essay must be written in an effective style. Style is the manner in which ideas are expressed. Style includes such matters as diction (i.e., word choice), syntax, and sentence variety. Words should be chosen for their exactness; the sentences should be written in a natural, unaffected syntax (word order); there should be a balance of sentence types (simple, compound, complex, and compound-complex). The best of ideas can be spoiled by inappropriate word choice, by artificial syntax, or by a series of simple sentences. You should train yourself to hear the sentences which you are writing mentally and to ask yourself how they would sound if they were read aloud. Avoid sentences that are awkward, wordy, ambiguous, pretentious, or artificial.

Writing that is done for college tests and papers is relatively formal. Therefore, you should avoid addressing the reader directly ("You can clearly see that Homer is a master in describing the horrors of war"), and you must avoid colloquialisms, slang, and jargon. Your writing should show that you have a good vocabulary and that you know how to use language gracefully and effectively. Good writing does not try to impress; rather, it seeks to communicate clearly. While it has some degree of sophistication, it is never pompous. The style should be that of a college-level student and not that of an eighth grader. The reader should sense that every word belongs in the paper--that each word contributes to the development of the central idea. The choice and arrangement of words should always reflect the writer's maturity in handling the language.

(Writing Center tutors can help you work with the style of your papers. Bring your concerns and your draft to a conference in Neville 206 by calling 7083 or dropping by to sign up for an appointment.)