RAHKONEN'S WRITING RULES
 

1. Compose on the level of the paragraph.

    a. Each paragraph should have a topic sentence.

    b. Each subsequent sentence should relate to the topic sentence.

    c. Keep the same verb tense throughout the paragraph.

    d. Avoid one-sentence paragraphs.

2. Use standard word order in sentences:

    (subject-> verb-> object).

    a. Avoid passive voice. "The ball was hit by the boy." =  "The boy hit the ball."

3. Use standard plain English.

    a. avoid jargon.

    b. avoid colloquialism.

4. Don't overstate your position.

    a. Don't present conjecture as fact.

5. Don't write a blow-by-blow account.

6. Write at the level of your subject and at the level of your audience.
 
 

Page created and maintained by Carl Rahkonen.  © 2001- Last modified 5/29/15  
Comments and/or suggestions may be e-mailed to: rahkonen@iup.edu. 
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