In hurried reading the eye is caught by the first group of words at the beginning of a sentence.  These words make more of an impression on the reader’s mind than do those in the middle or at the end of the sentence.  In all journalistic writing, therefore, the position of greatest emphasis is the beginning.  It is there that the most significant idea should be placed.  Such an arrangement does not mean that the sentence need trail off loosely in a series of phrases and clauses.  Firmness of structure can and should be maintained even though the strongest emphasis is at the beginning.  In revising his article a writer often finds that he may greatly increase the effectiveness of his sentences by so rearranging the parts as to bring the important ideas close to the beginning.

LENGTH OF THE SENTENCE.  Sentences may be classified according to length as (1) short, containing 15 words or less; (2) medium, from 15 to 30 words; and (3) long, 30 words or more.  Each of these types of sentence has its own peculiar advantages.

The short sentence, because it is easily apprehended, is more emphatic than a longer one.  Used in combination with medium and long sentences it gains prominence by contrast.  It makes an emphatic beginning and a strong conclusion for a paragraph.  As the last sentence of an article it is a good “snapper.”  In contrast with longer statements, it also serves as a convenient transition sentence.

The sentence of medium length lends itself readily to the expression of the average thought; but when used continuously it gives to the style a monotony of rhythm that soon becomes tiresome.

The long sentence is convenient for grouping details that are closely connected.  In contrast with the rapid, emphatic short sentence, it moves slowly and deliberately, and so is well adapted to the expression of dignified and impressive thoughts.

To prevent monotony, variety of sentence length is desirable.  Writers who unconsciously tend to use sentences of about the same length and of the same construction, need to beware of this uniformity.

The skillful use of single short sentences, of series of short sentences, of medium, and of long sentences, to give variety, to express thoughts effectively, and to produce harmony between the movement of the style and the ideas advanced, is well illustrated in the selection below.  It is the beginning of a personality sketch of William II, the former German emperor, published in the London Daily News before the world war, and written by Mr. A.G.  Gardiner, the editor of that paper.

When I think of the Kaiser I think of a bright May morning at Potsdam.  It is the Spring Parade, and across from where we are gathered under the windows of the old palace the household troops are drawn up on the great parade ground, their helmets and banners and lances all astir in the jolly sunshine.  Officers gallop hither and thither shouting commands.  Regiments form and reform.  Swords flash out and flash back again.  A noble background of trees frames the gay picture with cool green foliage.  There is a sudden stillness.  The closely serried ranks are rigid and moveless.  The shouts of command are silenced.

    “The Kaiser.”