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This quiz consists of 5 multiple choice and 5 short answer questions through Part III: Chapter 11 Nonfiction as Literature.

Multiple Choice Questions

1. Which is the simplest sentence?
(a) Simplicity is the opposite of clutter.
(b) Simplicity.
(c) Simplicity is opporite clutter.
(d) Simplicity is the direct opposite of clutter.

2. Why do Americans have trouble writing?
(a) They are bad at fact checking.
(b) Their minds are too cluttered.
(c) They do too much and slack on their writing.
(d) They are not complex enough.

3. Why is it important for writers to read constantly?
(a) To study the market.
(b) To learn from other writers' mistakes.
(c) To learn how to write.
(d) To emulate their heroes.

4. How does Zissner have the ability to choose words for the American Heritage Dictionary?
(a) He is related to someone on the panel.
(b) He created the Dictionary.
(c) He works for the American Heritage Dictionary
(d) He is on the American Heritage Dictionary Usage Panel

5. Can good writing be taught?
(a) Of course it can.
(b) Only good teachers can teach good writing.
(c) It cannot, but it can be learned.
(d) Only good students can learn good writing.

Short Answer Questions

1. Does the author believe good writing is the result of an inherent talent?

2. Who is the real audience in a piece of writing?

3. What is another important characteristic of a writer?

4. What is Zissner's point of view on the debate between literature and journalism?

5. How rigid are the lines between proper and improper English usage?

(see the answer key)

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