1.
Which of the following sentences best demonstrates clarity?
Correct Answer
D. Please let your employees know about next Fridays meeting.
Explanation
The sentence "Please let your employees know about next Fridays meeting" best demonstrates clarity because it is direct and concise. It clearly states the action that needs to be taken (letting employees know) and provides specific information about when the meeting will take place (next Friday). This sentence avoids unnecessary words or complex language, making it easy to understand and follow.
2.
Which of the following sentences does not contain a verb that has been converted into a noun?
Correct Answer
C. The jury concluded that the defendant was guilty.
Explanation
The sentence "The jury concluded that the defendant was guilty" does not contain a verb that has been converted into a noun. The word "concluded" is a verb in its original form, and it is not being used as a noun in this sentence. The other sentences contain verbs that have been converted into nouns: "recommendation" (from "recommend"), "decision" (from "decide"), and "analysis" (from "analyze").
3.
One of the first steps of the revision process is to test the ____ to make sure that your message will be immediately understood by the reader.
Correct Answer
A. Clarity
Explanation
In the revision process, testing the clarity of your message is essential to ensure that it will be easily understood by the reader. This involves reviewing the content and structure of your writing to eliminate any confusion or ambiguity. By focusing on clarity, you can ensure that your message is effectively communicated and that the reader will grasp your intended meaning without difficulty.
4.
Because they are shorter, concise messages are easier to write than longer ones.
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
The given statement suggests that shorter, concise messages are easier to write than longer ones. However, this statement is false. Writing shorter, concise messages can actually be more challenging as it requires careful selection of words and efficient communication of ideas. Longer messages, on the other hand, provide more room for elaboration and explanation. Therefore, the correct answer is false.
5.
The following sentence contains a verb that has been converted to a noun: Hannah performed an analysis of the March sales figures.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
The sentence contains the noun "analysis," which is derived from the verb "analyze." In this sentence, "analysis" functions as the direct object of the verb "performed." Therefore, the verb "analyze" has been converted to a noun in this sentence.
6.
Which of the following sentences is free of opening fillers, redundancies, or compound prepositions?
Correct Answer
B. Our company should go public for several reasons.
Explanation
The answer "Our company should go public for several reasons." is free of opening fillers, redundancies, or compound prepositions. It is a concise and straightforward sentence that states the main idea without any unnecessary phrases or wordiness.
7.
Which of the following phrases is free of redundancies?
Correct Answer
A. Essential items
Explanation
The phrase "essential items" is free of redundancies because both words are necessary and contribute to the meaning of the phrase. "Essential" indicates that the items are necessary or important, and "items" specifies what type of things are being referred to. There is no repetition or unnecessary words in this phrase.
8.
Which of the following sentences is parallel?
Correct Answer
B. Our new CEOs objectives are to improve employee morale, to boost revenues, and to enhance community relations.
Explanation
The correct answer is "Our new CEOs objectives are to improve employee morale, to boost revenues, and to enhance community relations." This sentence is parallel because all three objectives are listed using the same grammatical structure, starting with the verb "to" followed by the infinitive form of the verb.
9.
Opening fillers, long lead-ins, compound prepositions, and redundancies all make business documents wordier.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
Opening fillers, long lead-ins, compound prepositions, and redundancies all contribute to making business documents wordier. These elements add unnecessary length and complexity to the writing, which can make it more difficult for the reader to understand and follow. Therefore, it is true that these factors make business documents wordier.
10.
Which of the following is the worst advice for e-mail users?
Correct Answer
B. To be most efficient, use e-mail to avoid personal contact.
Explanation
The worst advice for e-mail users is to be most efficient and use e-mail to avoid personal contact. This advice goes against the purpose of communication and building relationships. E-mail should not be used as a tool to avoid personal interaction, as it can lead to misunderstandings and lack of connection. It is important to use e-mail as a means of communication while still valuing personal contact and building strong relationships.
11.
Each step in a procedure should begin with an active verb in the command (imperative) mode.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
This statement is true because using active verbs in the command (imperative) mode helps to clearly communicate the action that needs to be taken in each step of a procedure. Active verbs give clear instructions and leave no room for ambiguity or confusion. They also help to maintain a consistent tone and style throughout the procedure.
12.
E-mail messages should be written using standard caps and lowercase letters.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
E-mail messages should be written using standard caps and lowercase letters to ensure clarity and professionalism. Using all uppercase letters can be perceived as shouting or aggressive, while using all lowercase letters can appear lazy or unprofessional. Standard caps and lowercase letters help maintain a clear and professional tone in e-mail communication.
13.
Instant messaging (IM) should not be used professionally.
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
The given statement is "Instant messaging (IM) should not be used professionally." The correct answer is False. This means that instant messaging can be used professionally. Instant messaging can be a convenient and efficient way to communicate in a professional setting. It allows for quick and direct communication, which can be useful for collaboration, sharing information, and making decisions in real-time. However, it is important to use proper etiquette and professionalism when using instant messaging in a professional context.
14.
Which of the following situations is most appropriate for sending an e-mail message?
Correct Answer
C. Sabrina must send the months sales data to her department.
Explanation
Sending an email message to send the month's sales data to her department is the most appropriate situation because it involves sharing information within the company. It is a common practice to use email for internal communication, especially when sharing data or reports with colleagues or team members. Sending a negative performance review, salary information, or credit card information via email is not recommended due to the sensitive nature of the information and the potential for security breaches.
15.
What is the best opening sentence for an e-mail message that requests information about office furniture?
Correct Answer
D. Please send me information about your Mission Hill office furniture line.
Explanation
The best opening sentence for an e-mail message that requests information about office furniture is "Please send me information about your Mission Hill office furniture line." This sentence clearly and directly states the purpose of the email, which is to request information about a specific product line. It is concise and to the point, making it an effective opening sentence for the email.
16.
A routine e-mail message or memo that requests information should begin by
Correct Answer
A. Requesting the information without providing elaborate explanations and justifications.
Explanation
When requesting information in a routine e-mail message or memo, it is more effective to begin by simply requesting the information without providing elaborate explanations and justifications. This approach allows the recipient to quickly understand the purpose of the message and provide the requested information without being overwhelmed by unnecessary details. By avoiding lengthy explanations and justifications, the message remains concise and focused, facilitating a prompt response.
17.
Because e-mail messages are informal, they will never require research beforehand.
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
The given statement is false. While e-mail messages can be informal, they are not always devoid of research. Depending on the content of the message, it may still require research beforehand. For example, if the e-mail is related to a professional or academic topic, it is important to gather relevant information and facts before composing the message. Therefore, it is incorrect to assume that e-mail messages will never require research beforehand.
18.
E-mail messages and memos are standard forms of communication within organizations that perform critical tasks such as informing employees, giving directions, outlining procedures, requesting data, supplying responses, and confirming decisions.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
E-mail messages and memos are indeed standard forms of communication within organizations. They are commonly used to inform employees, provide directions, outline procedures, request data, supply responses, and confirm decisions. These forms of communication are efficient and widely used due to their ability to deliver information quickly and effectively to multiple recipients. Therefore, the statement "E-mail messages and memos are standard forms of communication within organizations that perform critical tasks such as informing employees, giving directions, outlining procedures, requesting data, supplying responses, and confirming decisions" is true.
19.
Free Information Available is an example of an effective, attention-getting subject line.
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
"Free Information Available" is not an effective, attention-getting subject line. This is because it does not create curiosity or interest in the reader. A more effective subject line would be one that is specific, intriguing, and highlights the value or benefit that the reader will receive by opening the email.
20.
Using a computer can help you create better written messages and oral presentations by helping you fight writers block, outline and organize ideas, make revisions, and
Correct Answer
C. Improve correctness and precision.
Explanation
Using a computer can help improve correctness and precision in written messages and oral presentations. Computers have spell check and grammar check features that can help catch errors and improve the accuracy of the content. Additionally, computers allow for easy editing and revising of the content, making it easier to refine and fine-tune the message to ensure it is clear and precise.
21.
Paragraphs arranged in the direct plan begin with the main sentence, followed by supporting sentences.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
Paragraphs arranged in the direct plan begin with the main sentence, followed by supporting sentences. This means that the main sentence presents the main idea or topic of the paragraph, and the supporting sentences provide additional information or evidence to support that main idea. This structure allows for a clear and organized presentation of ideas, making it easier for the reader to understand the main point of the paragraph. Therefore, the statement that paragraphs arranged in the direct plan begin with the main sentence, followed by supporting sentences is true.
22.
Most experts recommend that writers should attempt to produce error-free first drafts of their documents.
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
The given statement is false. Most experts do not recommend attempting to produce error-free first drafts. Instead, they suggest focusing on getting ideas down on paper and revising and editing later. Writing a perfect first draft can hinder creativity and slow down the writing process. It is more important to get thoughts and ideas out initially and then refine and polish the document through revisions.
23.
Travis is writing a letter that will turn down a job applicant for a position. He should use the direct pattern.
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
Travis should not use the direct pattern when turning down a job applicant for a position. The direct pattern is typically used for delivering positive or neutral news, while the indirect pattern is more appropriate for delivering negative news such as rejecting a job application. In the indirect pattern, the writer starts with a buffer, provides reasons for the decision, and ends with a positive or neutral closing. Therefore, the correct answer is False.
24.
The first ATM opened near London in 1967 is an example of an independent clause.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
The statement "The first ATM opened near London in 1967" is a complete sentence that expresses a clear thought and can stand alone as a sentence. It has a subject ("The first ATM") and a verb ("opened"), making it an independent clause. Therefore, the given answer, "True," is correct.
25.
I am responding to your letter of January 21 is a good example of frontloading the message at the beginning of a letter.
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
The statement suggests that "I am responding to your letter of January 21" is an example of frontloading the message at the beginning of a letter. However, this is incorrect. Frontloading refers to placing the most important information at the beginning of a message, but in this case, the statement is simply stating the context or reason for the response. It does not provide any key information or main point of the message. Therefore, the correct answer is false.
26.
Lawrence has been asked to learn how many cars drive by a specific location that his company is considering for a new restaurant. Probably the most useful way to research this information would be by
Correct Answer
C. Investigating primary sources.
Explanation
The most useful way for Lawrence to research the number of cars driving by a specific location for his company's new restaurant would be by investigating primary sources. Primary sources refer to original documents or firsthand accounts that provide direct evidence or information. In this case, Lawrence would need to gather data from sources such as traffic reports, government records, or surveys conducted specifically for this purpose. This method would provide accurate and reliable information about the number of cars passing by the location, helping Lawrence make an informed decision for the new restaurant.
27.
Which sentence best emphasizes the attorney?
Correct Answer
D. The attorney delivered the closing arguments.
Explanation
This sentence best emphasizes the attorney because it directly states that the attorney delivered the closing arguments.
28.
Which of the following is an example of using a formal research method?
Correct Answer
B. Lynne uses various Internet search tools to find information about reducing spam.
Explanation
Lynne using various Internet search tools to find information about reducing spam is an example of using a formal research method. This is because she is systematically gathering information using specific tools (Internet search tools) to investigate a particular topic (reducing spam). Formal research methods involve following a structured approach to collect and analyze data in order to answer a research question or solve a problem, which aligns with Lynne's approach in this scenario.
29.
Which of the following is a stylistic device for emphasizing important ideas?
Correct Answer
B. Placing the important idea in a simple sentence or an independent clause
Explanation
Placing the important idea in a simple sentence or an independent clause is a stylistic device for emphasizing important ideas because it allows the reader to easily identify and understand the main point. By using a simple sentence or an independent clause, the writer is able to isolate the important idea and give it prominence. This technique helps to draw attention to the key message and make it stand out from the rest of the text.
30.
Each and every, midway between, and personal opinion are all examples of
Correct Answer
A. Redundancies
Explanation
The given answer "redundancies" is correct because the examples provided, "each and every," "midway between," and "personal opinion," all contain unnecessary repetition of words or ideas. Redundancies occur when unnecessary words or phrases are used, which can make the sentence longer or more confusing. In this case, the words "each" and "every" essentially convey the same meaning, "midway" already implies being between two points, and "personal" is already implied when expressing an opinion. Therefore, these examples demonstrate redundancies in language usage.
31.
Most readability formulas measure
Correct Answer
D. The number of long words and sentence length
Explanation
This question asks about what most readability formulas measure. Readability formulas are used to assess the readability of a text and determine how easy or difficult it is to read. Two common factors that these formulas consider are the number of long words and the length of sentences. By analyzing these aspects, readability formulas can estimate the level of comprehension required to understand a text. Therefore, the correct answer is "the number of long words and sentence length."
32.
Suzanne is sending a letter to a client. Before sending it, she wants to make sure that she has made her point in the fewest possible words. What is Suzanne checking for?
Correct Answer
A. Conciseness
Explanation
Suzanne is checking for conciseness in her letter. This means she wants to make sure that she has expressed her point using the fewest possible words. By doing so, Suzanne aims to make her letter clear and to the point, avoiding any unnecessary or excessive information.
33.
Which of the following is an advantage of writing concisely?
Correct Answer
A. Concise messages are easier to comprehend than wordy messages.
Explanation
Writing concisely is advantageous because it makes messages easier to comprehend. When information is presented in a concise manner, it eliminates unnecessary details and focuses on the main points, making it easier for the reader to understand the message quickly and efficiently. This can be particularly important in professional or academic settings where time is limited, and clear communication is crucial. Concise writing also helps to avoid confusion and ensures that the main ideas are communicated effectively.
34.
Long sentences and long words cause the Fog Index of a document to decrease.
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
Long sentences and long words actually increase the Fog Index of a document, not decrease it. The Fog Index measures the readability of a text by taking into account the average sentence length and the percentage of words with three or more syllables. Longer sentences and words result in a higher Fog Index, indicating that the text is more difficult to read and comprehend. Therefore, the correct answer is False.
35.
Which of the following represents the best business writing?
Correct Answer
D. Your plane leaves San Jose at 9 a.m., PST, and arrives in Atlanta at 5 p.m., EST.
Explanation
The given sentence represents the best business writing because it is clear, concise, and provides specific information about the departure and arrival times of the plane. It uses accurate time zone abbreviations (PST and EST) and provides the necessary details for the reader to understand the schedule. The other options have issues such as wordiness, ambiguity, or lack of clarity, making them less effective in conveying the intended message in a business context.
36.
Strive to keep the Fog Index of your business writing in the 8-12 grade-level range.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
The statement suggests that it is desirable to maintain a Fog Index (a measure of readability) between the 8th and 12th grade level for business writing. This means that the writing should be easily understandable by individuals with a middle to high school education. By keeping the Fog Index within this range, the writer can ensure that their message is clear and accessible to a wide range of readers.
37.
One of the first revision tasks is assessing the clarity of your message to ensure that its meaning is immediately understood.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
The explanation for the given correct answer is that when revising a message, it is important to assess its clarity to ensure that the meaning is immediately understood. This is crucial because if the message is not clear, it can lead to confusion and miscommunication. By assessing the clarity of the message, the writer can make necessary adjustments to make it more understandable to the audience.
38.
One of the first steps of the revision process is to test the ____ to make sure that your message will be immediately understood by the reader.
Correct Answer
A. Clarity
Explanation
Clarity is the correct answer because when revising a message, it is important to ensure that the message is clear and easily understood by the reader. This involves checking for any confusing or ambiguous language, organizing the information in a logical manner, and making sure that the main points are effectively communicated. By testing the clarity of the message, the writer can ensure that their intended meaning is being conveyed to the reader without any potential misunderstandings.
39.
Probably the most useful word processing editing tool for collaborative writing is ____. This tool makes it possible to point out problematic passages or errors, ask or answer questions, and share ideas without changing or adding text.
Correct Answer
A. Insert Comments
Explanation
Insert Comments is the most useful word processing editing tool for collaborative writing because it allows users to provide feedback, ask questions, and share ideas without directly changing or adding text. This feature is particularly helpful for collaborative writing as it allows multiple users to easily communicate and make suggestions without altering the original content.
40.
Carmelita is part of a team that will be preparing a presentation to employees about new benefit options. What will her team likely do the first time they meet?
Correct Answer
A. Brainstorm for ideas.
Explanation
The first time Carmelita's team meets, they will likely brainstorm for ideas. This is because they need to generate different options and suggestions for the new benefit options presentation. Starting with a brainstorming session allows the team members to share their thoughts, ideas, and perspectives, fostering creativity and collaboration. Research and preparing PowerPoint slides usually come after the brainstorming phase, once the team has a clear direction and ideas to work with. Therefore, the correct answer is brainstorm for ideas.
41.
In team writing projects, team members usually work most closely together during Phase 2, the writing phase.
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
In team writing projects, team members usually work most closely together during Phase 2, the writing phase. False.
42.
Anticipating the audience for a message helps a communicator determine what to emphasize, how to be convincing, and what words and tone to use.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
Understanding the audience is crucial for effective communication. By anticipating the audience, a communicator can tailor their message to suit their needs and preferences. This includes determining what aspects to emphasize, using a tone and language that resonates with the audience, and presenting convincing arguments. By doing so, the communicator increases the chances of successfully conveying their message and achieving the desired outcome. Therefore, the statement is true.
43.
The best communication channel to use when group interaction is important but group members are geographically dispersed is a
Correct Answer
B. Videoconference or teleconference
Explanation
When group interaction is important but group members are geographically dispersed, the best communication channel to use is a videoconference or teleconference. This allows for real-time communication and interaction among group members, regardless of their physical locations. Fax, memo, and report are not suitable options as they do not facilitate immediate group interaction and may not effectively convey the necessary information to all members in a timely manner.
44.
You want your writing to sound positive and courteous. Which of the following sentences has the best choice of wording?
Correct Answer
A. Please give us your feedback about your online ordering experience.
Explanation
The sentence "Please give us your feedback about your online ordering experience" has the best choice of wording because it is polite and courteous. It uses the word "please" to make a request, and it focuses on the customer's experience rather than making a claim or demanding information. This sentence shows a positive and customer-centric approach to communication.
45.
Jake is responding to a customers question that was sent to him via e-mail. What is the very first thing Jake should do?
Correct Answer
B. Determine the purpose of the message he will send as a response.
Explanation
Jake should determine the purpose of the message he will send as a response before taking any further action. This is important because understanding the purpose will help him craft an appropriate and effective response to the customer's question. It will also ensure that Jake addresses the customer's needs and concerns accurately, leading to a more satisfactory resolution. Only after determining the purpose should Jake proceed with composing his reply, conducting any necessary research, and hitting the "Reply" button.
46.
Employee evaluations should contain
Correct Answer
C. Information about specific incidents, such as "working effectively with a team to produce a ten-page proposal."
Explanation
Employee evaluations should contain information about specific incidents, such as "working effectively with a team to produce a ten-page proposal." This is because specific incidents provide concrete examples of an employee's performance and accomplishments, allowing for a more accurate and fair evaluation. Assessing traits like reliability is subjective and may not provide clear evidence of an employee's abilities. Including negative statements about the employee without substantiation can be unfair and potentially damaging. Therefore, the most appropriate option is to include information about specific incidents in employee evaluations.
47.
You will see a decrease in your energy usage immediately is an example of a receiver-focused sentence.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
The given statement "You will see a decrease in your energy usage immediately" is an example of a receiver-focused sentence. This means that the emphasis is on the person receiving the message or experiencing the decrease in energy usage. The sentence suggests that the individual will directly observe a reduction in their energy consumption. Therefore, the statement aligns with the characteristics of a receiver-focused sentence.
48.
Which of the following statements about the 3-´-3 writing process is most accurate?
Correct Answer
D. The writer decides whether a document achieves its purpose in the third pHase of the writing process.
Explanation
The 3-´-3 writing process is a method used by writers to effectively plan, draft, and revise their documents. While it is true that experienced writers may spend a significant amount of time in the first phase, which involves prewriting and brainstorming, it is not accurate to say that they spend the most time on it. The steps of the writing process do not necessarily have to be followed in a specific order, as writers may go back and forth between different phases. Additionally, the 3-´-3 writing process can be applied to documents of various lengths and complexity. The most accurate statement is that the writer decides whether a document achieves its purpose in the third phase, which is the revision and editing phase.
49.
One advantage of the indirect pattern is that it respects the feelings of the reader.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
The indirect pattern of communication is designed to be more considerate of the reader's emotions and feelings. By using this pattern, the writer can convey their message in a more tactful and diplomatic way, avoiding direct confrontation or potentially hurtful language. This approach shows respect for the reader's emotions and can help maintain a positive relationship between the writer and the reader.
50.
Becca is writing a memo to her staff about new benefit options, and she is sure theyll be pleased with the news. Becca should use the
Correct Answer
B. Pivoting
Explanation
Becca should use the "pivoting" approach in her memo to her staff about new benefit options. This means that instead of directly presenting the information, she should start by addressing any concerns or issues the staff may have and then gradually transition to the new benefits. This approach allows Becca to effectively communicate the positive news while also addressing any potential resistance or skepticism from her staff.