Style
A clear and engaging writing style is the mark of an excellent writer. What is style? At its most basic, it is the way a writer uses and combines words and sentences to achieve a certain effect. Style can include:
- diction (word choice)
- sentence structure and syntax
- use of figurative language
- use of rhythm and sounds and
- rhetorical patterns (e.g., narration, description, comparison-contrast, etc.)
The resources in this section will help you both understand more about what style is and how to develop your own.
Writing style
- Elements of Writing Style by David Brundage.
- Stereotypes and Biased Language by the Purdue University Online Writing Lab.
- The Elements of Style, by William Strunk, Jr.
Passive voice
- English Grammar Handbook, a comprehensive guide to English grammar and manuscript preparation.
- Passive Verb Tenses, how to change an active verb tense to a passive one.
- Active and Passive Voice by the Purdue University Online Writing Lab.
- Methods of Eliminating Wordiness by the Purdue University Online Writing Lab.
Wordiness
- Methods of Eliminating Wordiness by the Purdue University Online Writing Lab.
Diction
Word use
Connotation and denotation
- Connotations and Denotations, by the University of Ottawa
A collection of homonyms, and common word use errors, arranged alphabetically
Vocabulary and spelling
- Building a better vocabulary, sponsored by Capital Community College Foundation
- Irregular plurals - General, Athabasca University
- Oxford English Dictionary
- Word forms, Athabasca University
Updated September 11, 2023 by Digital & Web Operations, University Relations (web_services@athabascau.ca)