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?