The Basics: Writing

by Krizan, A.C. Buddy; Logan, Joyce P.

• ISBN13: 9780538723015
• ISBN10: 0538723017
• Edition: 2nd
• Format: Paperback
• Copyright: 2000-03-27
• Publisher: Cengage Learning

Summary

The Basics of Writing includes a brief review of English grammar and usage, yet focuses on basic writing skills needed in both personal and business writing. Short concise content delivers a thorough approach with clear-cut examples and exercises to reinforce learning. Use of current technology and the Internet have been incorporated throughout as well as the SCANS workplace readiness skills. Humor is also added to emphasize key principles and concepts.

Table of Contents

Preface	v
Mastering the Foundations of Writing
Writing to Communicate	1	(1)
Clarifying Your Message Goals	2	(3)
Analyzing the Reader's Needs	5	(4)
Classifying Types of Writing	9	(10)
Applying Technology to Written Communication
Communicating with Technology	19	(1)
Selecting Computer Hardware	20	(2)
Writing with Computer Software	22	(4)
Composing and Editing with Computers	26	(4)
Storing and Managing Information	30	(1)
Printing Messages	31	(1)
Sending the Message	32	(2)
Refining the Appearance of the Message	34	(2)
Using the Internet and Worldwide Web	36	(2)
Collaborating with Other Writers	38	(9)
Analyzing Writing Principles
Apply the Writing Cs--Not Zzzz	47	(4)
Using Unbiased Language	51	(4)
Organizing a Unified Message	55	(4)
Developing an Effective Writing Style	59	(8)
The Writing Process
Preparing to Write	67	(4)
Researching the Topic	71	(3)
Overcoming Writer's Block	74	(1)
Composing a Draft	74	(2)
Revising and Refining the Draft	76	(1)
Editing and Proofreading	77	(2)
Preparing the Final Copy	79	(1)
Analyzing Your Writing	80	(9)
Improving Sentence Structure
Identifying Sentence Components	89	(3)
Writing Correct Sentences	92	(8)
Writing Clear and Direct Sentences	100	(3)
Types of Sentence Structure	103	(4)
Providing Emphasis to Ideas	107	(1)
Faulty Sentence Construction	108	(9)
Writing Effective Paragraphs
Arranging Ideas in Paragraphs	117	(5)
Analyzing Paragraph Structure	122	(3)
Developing Paragraphs for Different Purposes	125	(6)
Opening and Closing Paragraphs	131	(1)
Editing and Refining Paragraphs	131	(6)
Writing Essays
Analyzing Essays	137	(7)
Writing Modes	144	(8)
Planning an Essay	152	(4)
Formatting an Essay	156	(11)
Writing Reports and Proposals
Identifying Report Characteristics	167	(3)
Determining Content and Organization	170	(5)
Citing References	175	(2)
Conducting Research	177	(5)
Displaying Data in a Report	182	(5)
Writing a Proposal	187	(10)
Appendix A	197	(22)
Appendix B	219	(10)
Checkpoint Solutions	229	(18)
Index	247