Style Guide

What is style?

Though much of a student's time will be spent developing an argument (researching, discovering a relevant and arguable thesis, supporting this thesis with evidence, addressing opposing arguments), the importance of style should not be neglected. What goes on at the sentence level has important implications for the argument as a whole.

For example, subordination is a sentence-level strategy (and organizational strategy) necessary for argument. While style should not be a concern during the drafting stage, it should be an essential part of revision. Working on style is time-consuming; attention must be given to every word. However, this work will make the difference between writing that meets the essay criteria and writing that is exceptional (in other words, between "C" and "A" writing).

Native speakers can often "hear" when style principles are broken. Students should read their work out loud, listening for what "sounds funny." When writing "sounds funny," style is usually at fault. Style is different than grammar, but, luckily, many grammar problems disappear when the modern principles of style are followed.

Excerpted from the ENG 101/102/105 Sourcebook. "Style," by Bess Fox (Summer 2002).

How can I improve my writing style?

ENG 101 Style Principles

ENG 101 Style Checklist

ENG 102 Style Principles

ENG 102 Style Checklist