Friday, October 24, 2014

Sentence Variety



A sentence creates a bridge from writer to reader. Every word moves the ideas and action. Add texture by naming the sparrow, hibiscus or magnolia tree. Stress key points by adding details of color and sensory imagery.

If you break long sentences into short ones you will attract the reader's attention. Create a breathing stop. To achieve emphasis, reverse the usual word order. Read your sentences aloud to gain rhythm and impact. 

Word choice provides clarity. Active verbs intrigue and intensify sentences.  Avoid the use of passive voice and the "to be" verb. The subject needs its verb near the front rather than separated by a clause and stuck at the end of the sentence.


Ask yourself what does an adjective or adverb add to the sentence? Often they creep in like bandits and hitchhikers to rob your sentences of power. Make verbs your heroes to defeat them.

Select a paragraph from your current work. Circle the adjectives and adverbs first. Use a green marker  to color your nouns and verbs. 


Re-arrange the sentences to add texture and movement. It helps to read your sentences aloud.

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