Reading Survey 4
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School
Grand Rapids Community College *
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Course
350
Subject
Communications
Date
Apr 3, 2024
Type
docx
Pages
2
Uploaded by Ian1021
Section 2:
1. The chapter addresses some common misconceptions about business writing. What is something new you learned about business writing that you didn't expect? Why did it surprise you?
Through the reading of the chapter, I learned that sometimes it can be acceptable to use 'and' or 'but' to begin a sentence. Doing this can create the effect of spontaneous writing. Likewise, using 'but' to begin a sentence can help readers understand the text. It surprised me since I was always taught in school that you should never begin a sentence with 'and', and that has stayed with me. It makes sense to break these rules due to the semi-informal nature of some business writing.
2. In the opening of the chapter, the authors share a list of qualities that "good writers" use in their writing. Of these, which do you think is most important? Why?
I would say that having "clear goals focusing on purpose and audience" is the most important quality of good writers. A writer with clear goals can create a more effective message by avoiding irrelevant or unnecessary information. Additionally, by knowing and focusing on the
audience, the message can be better tailored therefore making it more helpful.
3. How does writing style connect with ethics? Provide an example.
Often in business communication, important information needs to be conveyed to the reader. The way that you are communicating this information can require ethical consideration. Suppose that a drug company is writing about the effects of a new medication about to be released. An unethical approach would be to use a complex writing style that incorporates technical terms, long sentences, and legal jargon. The average customer will have a hard time interpreting the writing and some important side-effects may be easily missed. Instead, an ethical
approach would be to use plain English to communicate this information.
4. The chapter provides ten ways to make your writing easier to read. Of these, where do you need the most work? Why?
I believe that the first quality, "use words that are accurate, appropriate, and familiar," is the most important. If a writer does not have clarity and precision in their writing, then a reader will struggle to understand the meaning of the text. In the case that a reader can not understand the writing, then all other qualities are not likely to work or be as effective.
5. In your opinion, what is the difference between revising and editing?
Revising is more about making changes to the overall composition of the writing. When revising, the author will likely be altering the content, organization, and tone of the writing. Editing, on the other hand, is done to make smaller changes in the writing. To edit, an author is correcting spelling and grammar in the document.
6. Share one discussion question about this chapter that we could discuss as a class.
Business jargon is still used occasionally in formal business communication. Why may someone choose to still use it, and should it be fully eliminated?
Section 3:
1. In your opinion, what is the purpose of a proposal?
The purpose of a proposal is to persuade an audience to take a specific course of action or
to approve your plan or idea. Proposals are often written to receive funding or approval to do something. In a competitive environment, a well-crafted proposal is needed so that you can receive the limited resources that others are competing for.
2. What are some of a proposal document's style and tone expectations?
A good proposal must be clear and easy to read. You should not use complex language and instead, use clear and concise language. When writing a proposal, use confident language, such as saying "we plan" instead of "we will try." Avoid using bragging terms as well, which can
reduce one's credibility.
3. Would the sample within the textbook be useful for your team as you develop your work? Why or why not?
Yes, the sample provided in the text helps understand and format a proposal. This document includes headers to show us what should go into a proper proposal. The sample is also labeled with additional notes which will help our team while we write the proposal.
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