A Writer's Alphabet of Concepts and Clues

DEFINITION

As a pattern of development, definition most often appears in a supporting role. Begin by putting a word/concept in a larger class, and then explain why/how it is distinct from other members of the class. Elaborate on the particulars of its distinctness. Organize from general to specific and often support by extended definitions.

The amount of detail and the length of an extended definition depend on complexity. THE overall purpose is to help readers understand difficult-to-comprehend abstractions.

DESCRIPTIVE WRITING

In descriptive writing, the goal is the same as in argumentative or persuasive writing: to get the reader to see something the same way you do. But with argumentative or persuasive writing, you have an action you want your reader to either abstain from or to do.

There are two general categories of descriptive writing. Objective description is often found in business, technical, scientific, and journalistic writing, i.e. procedures manuals and non-editorial news reporting. Subjective description is impressionistic, vivid, personal, and emotional--and may be much more common in everyday life.

What is important in good descriptive writing? Detail, detail, detail. Shades, tones, textures, and scenets, precise and particular. And none that mar the image you are building in your reader's mind. Use sharpness, even in the shadings.

DETAIL

Pay close attention to detail not only in the use of examples but also in the exactness of both the word and the illustration.

DIALOGUE

or conversation, between two people, or with oneself, provides the reader with insight and moves the story forward without the writer standing on the stage in a didactic mode.

DOCUMENTATION

Complete documentation of your research as you are doing it will help you avoid plagiarism.