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 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

• Idioms, by Athabasca University
• Diction, by the University of Ottawa

Word use

Connotation and denotation

• Connotations and Denotations, by the University of Ottawa

A collection of homonyms, and common word use errors, arranged alphabetically

• Common Errors in English

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.)