Grading Key

Grading Key

~ = sort of, not exactly right

amb = ambiguous reference or pronoun; what does this refer to?

av = avoid (ex. "logical", "feel", "utilize", business speak)

avc = avoid contractions

avm = avoid metaphors

avn = avoid narrative reconstructions of arguments

art = stilted, artificial prose; write as you might speak

bs = bull manure

cs = comma splice

dd = don't double; pick an adjective

de = don't editorialize; show me, don't tell

dsl = don't use slashes (ex. x/y); how do you read this out loud?

dsq = don't scare quote; every concept is open for examination

e = empty; lacks content

k = awkward

f = filler; unnecessary

frag = fragment

imp = imprecise

ir = irrelevant

mis = misleading

ml = missing link

nc = not clear

prep = wrong preposition

pv = passive voice (ex. "the window was broken")

px = prolix

ra = read aloud; this sounds funny

red = redundant (sometimes "rd")

rel = how is this relevant?

ro = run on

sva = subject verb agreement

sex = use gender neutral pronouns, etc.

tc = too complicated; write simple, direct sentences

tinf = too informal

tf = too fast; give more explanation

v = vague

wc = word choice

wdm = what do you mean?