Comments on: Multiple Thoughts in One Sentence

By: Rollin

Rollin — Sat, 26 Mar 2011 12:08:00 +0000

Writing succinctly and using words with two syllables or less is much harder than writing using three or more syllable words and having multiple commas.

By: Marian Lacey

Marian Lacey — Mon, 17 Jan 2011 19:54:05 +0000

Can you speak to the use of the comma before “if” in a subordinate clause.

By: PreciseEdit

PreciseEdit — Mon, 19 Jan 2009 17:57:20 +0000

This is an old post, but since I just came across it (and because I can’t help myself), I’ll add my two cents.

Tip #73 from our Writing Tips for a Year addresses the issue of sentence length and simplicity. I have copied it here.

“I notice that you use plain, simple language, short words and brief sentences. That is the way to write English—it is the modern way and the best way.” – Mark Twain

I was once asked whether our editing strategies are appropriate for creative writing or if they are only appropriate for business writing and other formal writing contexts. The answer, of course, is “Yes, they are appropriate for creative writing.” Many of our editing strategies echo Mark Twain’s comment above, and few people would doubt his ability to write good fiction.

When you are imparting information, whether in a technical document or a narrative document (such as a fiction novel), you need to consider how to impart that information effectively. Styles are different, as are the readers, but writing simply and clearly is necessary to accomplish the purpose for which you are writing.

By: Sovan

Sovan — Sat, 26 Apr 2008 17:14:33 +0000

I really English Grammar. thank alot

By: DPeach

DPeach — Tue, 04 Sep 2007 20:41:24 +0000

I tried long ago to start using short sentences when possible. This was at the recommendation of our in house editor. The problem now is that I sometimes fall into the trap of having too many of them.

I did some translation work a couple of years back where the original copy was written in huge sentences which were often over 120 words long! The writing was being done by a young lady who had no training in writing. It was a nightmare.