Style

Technical Editing

Style

“Choices about diction and sentence structure that affect comprehension and emphasis as well as projecting a voice or persona.” (Rude 460)

Style

Diction – “the choice of words used in writing and speech” (Handbook 134)

Sentence structure – “Sentences generally flow from a subject to a verb to any objects, complements, or modifiers, but they can be ordered in a variety of ways to achieve emphasis” (Handbook 509)

Style - Diction

Mark Twain once said, “The difference between the right word and almost the right word is the difference between ‘lightening’ and ‘lightening bug.’ (Handbook 582)

It was a productive meeting. (what does that mean?)

Style - Diction

The meeting helped both sides understand each other’s positions.

(Better, clearly describes the meeting) Resignation letter

I am submitting my resignation effective (date); it has been an experience working for you.

Style - Sentence Structure

Place the subject and verb near the beginningSee Rude 259 for a delayed subject

Prefer S-V-O or S-V-C word orderSee Rude 259

Use appropriate sentence lengthSee Rude 259-260

Style - Sentence Structure

Use “actors” in sentencesRude 260-261

Prefer positive constructionsRude 261

Exercise – “Clear and Concise” and “Deadwood”

Organization

The most important part of this chapter (17) is the discussion of grouping related material

Homework (D&A 6, 302) compare

Visual Design

Contrast Repetition Alignment Proximity C. R. A. P.

http://edweb.sdsu.edu/courses/edtec470/graphics/carp/