Friday, July 31, 2009

Copyediting Quiz

Adapted from exercises in Michael L. Murcock's Writing Clearly and Effectively--

1. Change the word demonstrate into a shorter word.

2. Change the phrase in view of the fact to one word

3. Rewrite Thank you for your description of the merchandise.

4. Change to a positive statement or question All staff members are directed to report to the meeting at 4:00 sharp.

5. Choose the correct word and rewrite the following: His opposition to the proposals (convinces, convince) me that they are weak.

6. Correct the following sentence for correct grammar and conciseness: Accomplishment of only minimal progress was achieved by the company because the company was a victim of poor examples.

7. Correct any grammar errors in the following sentence: The used car only had miner problems.

8. Correct the punctuation problem in the following sentence: Strike three youre out

9. Correct any grammar errors in the following sentence: Martha must have forgot to pay the electric bill.

10. Correct any errors in grammar and clarity in the following sentence: The reason for his poor performance is because of the fact that he is lazy.

Remember, the first person who sends in correct quiz answers will receive one hour copyediting free--that's a $25 value!

Note

Murdock, Michael L. Writing Clearly and Effectively. Washington, D.C.: Transemantics Incorporated, 1987.

1 comment:

  1. Oooh! Fun and games! :D


    1. Show
    2. Since
    3. Thank you for your merchandise description.
    4. All staff members should report to the meeting at 4:00 sharp /Would all staff members report to the meeting at 4:00 sharp?
    5. His opposition to the proposals convinces me that they are weak./ His opposition convinces me that the proposals are weak.
    6. The company achieved minimal progress because of poor examples.
    7. The used car had only minor problems.
    8. Strike three, you’re out.
    9. Martha must have forgotten to pay the electric bill.
    10. The reason for his poor performance is his laziness.

    ReplyDelete