Style
A clear and engaging writing style is the mark of an excellent writer. What is style? At its most basic, it is the way a writer uses and combines words and sentences to achieve a certain effect. Style can include
- diction (word choice)
- sentence structure and syntax
- use of figurative language
- use of rhythm and sounds and
- rhetorical patterns (e.g. narration, description, comparison-contrast, etc.)
The resources in this section will help you both understand more about what style is and how to develop your own.
Writing Style
- Elements of Writing Style by David Brundage.
- Stereotypes and Biased Language by the Purdue University Online Writing Lab.
- The Elements of Style, by William Strunk, Jr.
Passive Voice
- English Grammar Handbook, a comprehensive guide to English grammar and manuscript preparation.
- Passive Verb Tenses, how to change an active verb tense to a passive one.
- Active and Passive Verbs by Donella Westphal for the Write Place, St. Cloud State University, St. Cloud, MN.
- Active and Passive Voice by the Purdue University Online Writing Lab.
- Methods of Eliminating Wordiness by the Purdue University Online Writing Lab.
Wordiness
- Methods of Eliminating Wordiness by the Purdue University Online Writing Lab.
Diction
Word Use
Connotation and Denotation
- Connotations and Denotations, by the University of Ottawa
A Collection of Homonyms, and Common Word Use Errors, Arranged Alphabetically
Vocabulary and Spelling
- Building a better vocabulary, sponsored by Capital Community College Foundation
- Irregular plurals - General, Athabasca University
- Oxford English Dictionary
- Word Forms, Athabasca University. (This link requires an active AU Student ID.)
Updated November 17, 2020 by Student & Academic Web Services (sas@athabascau.ca)