7 Steps to Better Writing - Charles Maxwell 2020
Place the most important or complex at the end
Step 6 – Revise
Place what is most important at the end of a phrase or sentence, as shown in the following examples.
Emphasizes “total agreement” |
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The manager reported to the board that the committee was in total agreement. |
Emphasizes “the board” |
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The committee that was in total agreement reported to the board. |
Emphasizes “important questions” |
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The manuscript is a little disorganized, but it answers important questions. |
Emphasizes “disorganized” |
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The manuscript answers important questions, but is a little disorganized. |
When elements in a list have equal importance, place the longest or most complex item at the end. For example: life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.