1. C #4: “The difference between the right word and the wrong word is the difference between the lightning and the lightning bug.” -Mark Twain Choose Your Words

2. Word Choice Use a dictionary or thesaurus to help you express your ideas clearly. Hint: use the shift and F7 keys to bring up a thesaurus in Microsoft Word. Hint #2: use internet websites like www.mirriamwebster.com or www.dictionary.com while you write. www.mirriamwebster.com www.dictionary.com

3. Watch connotations Connotations are the emotions people associate with the words you use. Consider the difference between the following: Child; kid; offspring Angry; ticked off; furious; mad; fuming; wrathful Computer expert; geek; hacker; techie; programmer Jail; slammer; cooler; prison; correctional institution

4. Watch for informal language Do not use slang in formal writing! Even worse: DO NOT USE QUOTATION MARKS TO USE SLANG – That means you KNOW it’s not okay. – Ex: Phoenix Jackson is a “cool” grandma.

5. Watch for euphemisms, clichés These forms of language have lost their impact through overuse, or make a situation seem different then it really is. Ex: Clichés: hit the nail on the head Crystal clear Better late than never Ex. Euphemism: Laid off vs. fired Passed away vs. died

6. Distinguish the formal from the stuffy Students try to use pretentious language to obscure fuzzy thinking. Make your point, explain it, and move on. StuffyDirect Commencefinish Endeavortry Residelive Terminateend