Grammar
Remember: People want information that's short, simple, and to the point. Using the following techniques will make your manuscript a clearer and faster read. You may also want to refer to the Chicago Manual of Style and the U.S. Government Printing Office Style Manual, both of which we use in preparing products for publication.
Use the active voice. Active voice uses fewer words and is clearer.
Don't Say |
Do Say |
| The rights of victims have gone unrecognized by the criminal justice system for a long time. |
The criminal justice system did not recognize victims' rights for a long time. |
Use short words. Don't use a long word
or phrase when a short one delivers the same message. Examples—
Don't Say |
Do Say |
utilize
in order to
as well as
terminate
with the exception of
conduct a survey
make a decision
|
use
to
and
end
except for
survey
decide
|
Use short sentences. Make your point, then
move on. Long sentences with many commas are difficult to read.
Avoid jargon. Steer clear of terminology specific
to a field unless the intended audience is only members of the
field.
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