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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.)

Updated June 10, 2022 by Digital & Web Operations, University Relations (web_services@athabascau.ca)

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