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Features Of Academic Writing – Quiz 2
Features Of Academic Writing Quiz 2 (30 MCQs)
This multiple-choice question set evaluates students' understanding of key features in academic writing, including coherence, evidence-based arguments, and formal language requirements. It also assesses their ability to identify types of support used in academic texts and engage effectively with sources.
Quiz Instructions
Select an option to see the correct answer instantly.
1.
This prohibits the use of colloquial words and expressions, abbreviations and two-word verbs.
A) Accuracy.
B) Complexity.
C) Formality.
D) Objectivity.
Show Answer
Explanations:
This statement emphasizes the avoidance of informal language elements such as colloquial words, abbreviations, and two-word verbs in academic writing. Such restrictions are typical characteristics of formal writing, which aims to maintain a professional tone and clarity.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Accuracy refers to the correctness of information but does not specifically address language formality.
Option B:
Complexity pertains to sentence structure and vocabulary level, not the avoidance of informal language elements.
Option C:
Formality directly relates to the use of appropriate language in academic writing, including avoiding colloquialisms and abbreviations.
Option D:
Objectivity concerns the impartial presentation of information but does not address language style or formality.
2.
What does a review evaluate?
A) Someone else's publication.
B) A narrative essay.
C) A research proposal.
D) A personal experience.
Show Answer
Explanations:
A review evaluates someone else's publication, assessing its quality, relevance, and contribution to the field of study.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Correct. Reviews focus on evaluating publications.
Option B:
Incorrect. Narratives are not typically reviewed in academic contexts unless they are part of a publication or research proposal.
Option C:
Incorrect. While proposals may be evaluated, the term "review" specifically refers to assessing published works.
Option D:
Incorrect. Personal experiences are usually not subject to formal review in academic settings unless they are documented and submitted for publication.
3.
How can the sentence "The overall standard of English in Male' has clearly declined in recent years" be rewritten using the word "appears" ?
A) The overall standard of English in Male' appears to have declined in recent years.
B) The overall standard of English in Male' has declined in recent years.
C) The overall standard of English in Male' is declining in recent years.
D) The overall standard of English in Male' will decline in recent years.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The sentence "The overall standard of English in Male' appears to have declined in recent years" uses the verb "appears," which indicates a perception based on evidence but does not assert certainty about the decline. This makes it suitable for academic writing where one might present findings without absolute certainty.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Correct. Uses "appears" to indicate a perceived decline, appropriate for an uncertain observation.
Option B:
Incorrect. Uses "has declined," which asserts certainty and does not use the word "appears."
Option C:
Incorrect. Uses "is declining," which suggests a continuous action in progress rather than a past decline observed recently.
Option D:
Incorrect. Uses "will decline," which is a prediction about future events, not an observation of recent changes.
4.
Sentences that are structured around noun phrases are generally ..... and clearer than sentences constructed around verb phrases but they may be more difficult for students to write.
A) Unnecessary.
B) Complex.
C) Concise.
D) None of the above.
Show Answer
Explanations:
Noun phrases often create direct and concise sentences, making them easier for readers to understand quickly. This aligns with the characteristics of academic writing where clarity is paramount.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Unnecessary - Incorrect; noun phrases can be useful in creating clear sentences.
Option B:
Complex - Incorrect; while complex sentences might use verb phrases, noun phrase-based sentences are generally simpler and clearer.
Option C:
Concise - Correct; noun phrases often lead to more direct and succinct sentence structures, which is a feature of academic writing.
Option D:
None of the above - Incorrect; option C accurately describes the benefit of using noun phrases in sentences.
5.
Directions:Choose the letter of the correct feature of academic writing that is emphasized in each situation.2. Leah made it to the point not to use the first person as the subject in her writing.
A) Precision.
B) Objective.
C) Structured.
D) Formal.
Show Answer
Explanations:
Leah's decision to avoid using the first person in her writing demonstrates an emphasis on objectivity. In academic writing, authors typically adopt a neutral and impersonal tone to maintain a sense of detachment from the subject matter, focusing instead on presenting facts and arguments.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Precision refers to using exact language but does not specifically address avoiding first-person pronouns.
Option B:
Objective is correct as it involves maintaining a neutral tone by not using the first person, which aligns with academic writing standards.
Option C:
Structured pertains to organizing content logically but does not explain why avoiding first-person pronouns is significant.
Option D:
Formal refers to the overall style and tone of the writing but does not specifically address the use of first-person pronouns.
6.
Features of Academic writing where the main emphasis should be on the information that you want to give and the arguments you want to make, rather than you.
A) Complex.
B) Precision.
C) Objectivity.
D) Formal.
Show Answer
Explanations:
Objectivity in academic writing means that the writer focuses on presenting information and arguments without personal bias, ensuring the content is based on facts, evidence, and logical reasoning rather than individual opinions or emotions. This aligns with the requirement of emphasizing the information and arguments over the author's personal stance.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Complexity refers to the level of detail and sophistication in language but does not address the focus on information and arguments.
Option B:
Precision involves using exact and clear language, which is important but not the primary emphasis in academic writing as much as objectivity is.
Option C:
Objectivity directly addresses the core of academic writing by ensuring that the focus is on the information and arguments rather than the author's personal views.
Option D:
Formality pertains to the style and tone but does not capture the essence of focusing on content over the writer’s perspective.
7.
What is the purpose of critical writing in academic writing?
A) To describe.
B) To analyse and evaluate.
C) To be balanced.
D) To use precise language.
Show Answer
Explanations:
Critical writing in academic writing is primarily about analyzing and evaluating ideas, arguments, or texts. This involves breaking down the content to understand its components, assessing their validity, and forming a judgment based on evidence and reasoning.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Describing is not the main purpose of critical writing; it focuses more on analysis and evaluation.
Option B:
Correct. Analyzing and evaluating are key features of critical writing in academic contexts.
Option C:
While balance can be important, it is not the defining feature of critical writing.
Option D:
Using precise language is a characteristic of academic writing but does not define critical writing specifically.
8.
Which of the following is stick to specific, grounded arguments that you can support with evidence?
A) Not emotive and grandiose.
B) Not personal.
C) Not long winded.
D) Not clear.
Show Answer
Explanations:
Option A is correct because academic writing should be grounded in specific, evidence-based arguments that are not overly emotional or grandiose. This ensures the argument remains focused and credible.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Academic writing should avoid emotive and grandiose language to maintain a grounded, evidence-based approach.
Option B:
Being personal can be acceptable in some academic contexts but is not a defining feature of specific, grounded arguments.
Option C:
Lengthiness is not inherently problematic; clarity and supporting evidence are more critical.
Option D:
Clarity is important, but it does not fully capture the essence of sticking to specific, grounded arguments with evidence.
9.
Proper citation of all the sources and inclusion of bibliographies are required in academic writing.
A) True.
B) False.
C) All the above.
D) None of the above.
Show Answer
Explanations:
Proper citation of all sources and inclusion of bibliographies are indeed essential in academic writing to ensure the authenticity, credibility, and originality of the work. This practice helps avoid plagiarism and provides evidence for the research conducted by the author.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
True. Proper citation and bibliography inclusion are fundamental requirements in academic writing.
Option B:
False. Incorrect, as stated above.
Option C:
All the above. Not applicable since only one option is correct.
Option D:
None of the above. Incorrect because Option A is true.
10.
Academic writing should be
A) Clear.
B) Precise.
C) Objective.
D) All of the above.
Show Answer
Explanations:
Academic writing should be clear, precise, and objective to ensure that the information is easily understood, accurately conveyed, and free from bias. These qualities are essential for maintaining the integrity and reliability of academic discourse.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Clear – Ensures the message is understandable.
Option B:
Precise – Ensures the language is exact and unambiguous.
Option C:
Objective – Ensures the writing remains unbiased and focused on facts.
Option D:
All of the above – Correct, as academic writing requires all these qualities.
11.
The investors met to discuss the stock market.
A) The investors convened to talk about the stock market.
B) The investors s had a meeting to discuss the stock market.
C) The investors convened to discuss the stock market.
D) None of the above.
Show Answer
Explanations:
Option C is correct because it uses the verb "convened" which means to gather for a formal purpose, making the sentence more formal and appropriate for academic writing. The phrase "to discuss the stock market" accurately conveys the intention of the meeting.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Uses "had a meeting," which is less concise than "convened."
Option B:
Includes an unnecessary past tense "had," making it less suitable for formal writing.
Option C:
Is correct as explained above.
Option D:
Indicates no option is correct, which is incorrect given the analysis of A, B, and C.
12.
All are basic parts of essay expcept for:
A) Conclusion.
B) Idea.
C) Body.
D) Introduction.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The basic parts of an essay include the introduction, body, and conclusion. An "idea" is not a distinct part but rather a component that can be found within these sections. Each section serves a specific purpose: the introduction sets up the topic, the body develops the argument with supporting details, and the conclusion summarizes the main points.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Conclusion - This is a basic part of an essay.
Option B:
Idea - Not a distinct part but can be found within sections like introduction or body.
Option C:
Body - This is a basic part of an essay.
Option D:
Introduction - This is a basic part of an essay.
13.
In other words, they establish the facts by writing about what they have learned from others and from their own research, and how this has led to new conclusions. This style of writing, therefore, avoids personal ..... and the passive voice is a common linguistic feature.
A) Pronouns.
B) Words.
C) Stories.
D) None of the above.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The passage describes a style of academic writing that relies on summarizing information from others and one's own research to form new conclusions, avoiding personal pronouns in the process. The passive voice is mentioned as a common feature, but it does not directly relate to why personal pronouns are avoided.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Correct. Personal pronouns are often avoided in academic writing to maintain objectivity and focus on the research rather than the writer's perspective.
Option B:
Incorrect. While words are used, they do not specifically address why personal pronouns are avoided.
Option C:
Incorrect. Stories are not a linguistic feature that would be discussed in this context.
Option D:
Incorrect. There is a correct answer among the options provided.
14.
Before deciding whether and how to incorporate information into their own writing, authors should analyze and evaluate the information they are writing about, or make judgments about it.
A) Evidenced.
B) Critical.
C) Formal.
D) Balanced.
Show Answer
Explanations:
Option B, "Critical," is correct because critical analysis involves evaluating information objectively and making reasoned judgments about its validity, relevance, and reliability. This process is essential in academic writing to ensure that the information incorporated into a piece of writing is well-considered and appropriately used.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Evidenced - Refers to supporting claims with evidence but does not encompass the evaluative aspect required for critical analysis.
Option B:
Critical - Involves evaluating information and making judgments, which is crucial in academic writing.
Option C:
Formal - Relates to the style of writing rather than the process of analyzing information.
Option D:
Balanced - Ensures that different viewpoints are considered but does not fully capture the evaluative nature required for critical analysis.
15.
This feature prohibits the use of personal point of views and biases. It is more concerned with facts and arguments which are based on a thorough examination of the evidence.
A) Objectivity.
B) Accuracy.
C) Complexity.
D) Formality.
Show Answer
Explanations:
Option A is correct because the feature described emphasizes presenting information without personal opinions and biases, focusing instead on factual evidence and thorough examination of arguments. This aligns with the definition of objectivity in academic writing.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Emphasizes presenting facts and evidence without personal bias.
Option B:
Focuses on the accuracy of information but does not address the absence of personal views or biases.
Option C:
Relates to complexity in writing, which is not mentioned in the description.
Option D:
Concerns formal language and structure, unrelated to the given context.
16.
Women read for pleasure almost 4 times as much as men.
A) Reason.
B) Explanation.
C) Topic Sentence / Thesis.
D) Evidence.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The statement "Women read for pleasure almost 4 times as much as men" provides a specific piece of information that supports the claim being made about reading habits between genders. This type of data is considered evidence in academic writing, used to back up arguments or claims.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Reason - Not correct; reasons explain why something is true.
Option B:
Explanation - Not correct; explanations elaborate on how something works.
Option C:
Topic Sentence / Thesis - Not correct; topic sentences introduce the main idea of a paragraph, while thesis statements are broader and more specific to an entire essay or paper.
Option D:
Evidence - Correct; evidence supports claims with factual data.
17.
Academic writing appears ..... because it often refers to abstract ideas, whereas everyday language is more concrete and familiar.
A) Complex.
B) Concise.
C) Specialized.
D) None of the above.
Show Answer
Explanations:
Academic writing appears
specialized
because it often refers to abstract ideas, whereas everyday language is more concrete and familiar. This makes academic writing distinct in its use of terminology and concepts that are specific to the field or discipline.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Complex - While academic writing can be complex, this option does not directly address the key feature mentioned (abstract ideas vs. concrete language).
Option B:
Concise - This is incorrect as conciseness refers to brevity rather than the nature of content or subject matter.
Option C:
Specialized - Correct, because academic writing often uses specialized terms and abstract ideas that are not part of everyday language.
Option D:
None of the above - Incorrect as Option C is correct.
18.
An academic feature that ensures the reader understands the meaning by using clear, accurate, and precise language.
A) Critical.
B) Formal.
C) Precise.
D) Evidenced.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The correct answer is
C) Precise.
Precision in academic writing ensures that the language used is clear, accurate, and unambiguous, which helps readers understand the meaning without confusion. This feature is crucial for maintaining the integrity of the information presented.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Critical refers to the evaluative aspect of academic writing rather than clarity.
Option B:
Formal is about the style and tone, not necessarily the language precision.
Option C:
Precise directly addresses the need for clear, accurate, and unambiguous language in academic writing.
Option D:
Evidenced pertains to the use of evidence or references rather than the clarity of language.
19.
Refers to the relationship and connection of the ideas in the text. It is the organization of the ideas in the text.
A) Complex.
B) Hedging.
C) Accuracy.
D) Explicit.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The correct answer is
D) Explicit.
This term refers to the clear and direct presentation of ideas in academic writing, ensuring that the relationships between concepts are easily understood by the reader. It contrasts with implicit or nuanced presentations where connections might not be as straightforward.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Complex - This does not specifically refer to the clarity and directness of ideas in academic writing.
Option B:
Hedging - This involves using language that expresses caution or uncertainty, which is not related to the clear presentation of relationships between ideas.
Option C:
Accuracy - While important, this term refers more to the correctness of information rather than the organization and clarity of ideas in a text.
Option D:
Explicit - This correctly describes the directness and clarity with which ideas are presented, making their relationships clear to the reader.
20.
What is the significance of unity in a text?
A) To develop the main idea cohesively.
B) To have unrelated sentences.
C) To include unnecessary details.
D) To use colloquial language.
Show Answer
Explanations:
Unity in a text ensures that all parts contribute to the main idea, creating a cohesive and focused argument or narrative. This is crucial for academic writing as it helps maintain clarity and relevance throughout the piece.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Correct. Unity supports the development of the main idea cohesively by ensuring that every sentence and paragraph relates directly to the central theme.
Option B:
Incorrect. Unrelated sentences disrupt unity, making it difficult for readers to follow the argument or understand the purpose of the text.
Option C:
Incorrect. Including unnecessary details can detract from unity by introducing irrelevant information that does not support the main idea.
Option D:
Incorrect. The use of colloquial language may affect formality but does not directly relate to the concept of unity in academic writing.
21.
It allows potential readers to quickly identify what your paper is about and decide if it's worth reading.
A) Abstract.
B) Personalized Cover Page.
C) APA/MLA Title Page.
D) Acknowledgements.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The abstract is a concise summary of the research paper that highlights its main points and objectives, allowing potential readers to quickly grasp the essence of the work and decide if it's relevant to their interests.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Correct. Abstracts serve as an initial overview for readers.
Option B:
Personalized cover pages are decorative and do not summarize content.
Option C:
APA/MLA title pages include bibliographic information but no summary of the paper's content.
Option D:
Acknowledgements section lists people who contributed to the research but does not provide an overview of the study.
22.
In-text citations and a reference section are used to properly reference the information.
A) Evidenced.
B) Formal.
C) Critical.
D) Precise.
Show Answer
Explanations:
In academic writing, in-text citations and a reference section are used to properly attribute the sources of information, ensuring that the work is well-researched and ethically presented. This practice supports the evidenced feature by clearly showing where the information comes from.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Correct. In-text citations and reference sections provide evidence for the claims made in the text, supporting the evidenced feature of academic writing.
Option B:
Incorrect. While formal is a characteristic of academic writing, it does not specifically address the use of citations and references to support information.
Option C:
Incorrect. Critical thinking involves analyzing and evaluating arguments, which is separate from the practice of citing sources.
Option D:
Incorrect. Precision in language refers to clear and exact wording, not the method of referencing sources.
23.
Mr. Reyes doesn't like snakes.
A) Does not.
B) Doesn't.
C) Doesnot.
D) None of the above.
Show Answer
Explanations:
Option A is correct because it properly uses the contraction "does not" to match the subject-verb agreement in the negative sentence about Mr. Reyes' dislike of snakes.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Correctly uses "does not" for proper subject-verb agreement and negation.
Option B:
Incorrect as it omits the space before the period, making it a contraction without proper spacing.
Option C:
Incorrect because it combines two words into one, which is improper in English grammar.
Option D:
Incorrect as there is a correct answer among the options provided.
24.
You can open with a statistics to hook the interest of the audience.
A) True.
B) False.
C) All the above.
D) None of the above.
Show Answer
Explanations:
Using statistics to hook the audience is a common and effective technique in academic writing, as it provides concrete evidence that supports arguments and adds credibility to the text. This method helps engage readers by presenting them with factual information that can make the content more interesting and relevant.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
True. Using statistics is a valid strategy in academic writing to enhance engagement and provide evidence.
Option B:
False. This would be incorrect as statistics are indeed used effectively in academic contexts.
Option C:
All the above. Not applicable since only one option (A) is correct.
Option D:
None of the above. Incorrect because Option A is true.
25.
Oddly, if English is not your first language, the importance of being ..... in academic writing adds to this complexity.
A) Complex.
B) Concise.
C) Objective.
D) None of the above.
Show Answer
Explanations:
Being
objective
in academic writing is crucial, especially for non-native speakers. Objectivity ensures that the writer presents information without bias, which can be challenging when expressing ideas clearly and accurately. This requirement adds to the complexity of academic writing because it demands a high level of precision and clarity.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Complex - While being complex might describe some aspects of academic writing, it does not specifically address the challenge non-native speakers face in maintaining objectivity.
Option B:
Concise - Being concise is important but does not directly relate to the added complexity for non-native speakers in terms of objectivity.
Option C:
Objective - This is correct because being objective adds a layer of difficulty for non-native speakers as it requires them to present information without bias, which can be challenging when expressing ideas clearly and accurately.
Option D:
None of the above - This is incorrect since Option C correctly identifies the key challenge.
26.
Which word can be used to rewrite the sentence "The air quality has definitely deteriorated" in a more tentative way?
A) Certainly.
B) Probably.
C) Definitely.
D) Absolutely.
Show Answer
Explanations:
Option B) Probably, is correct because it introduces a degree of uncertainty that makes the statement more tentative. "Probably" suggests that while there is evidence for deterioration in air quality, it is not certain and could be subject to further investigation or confirmation.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Certainly - This word implies certainty, which contradicts the requirement of making the statement more tentative.
Option B:
Probably - This choice introduces a level of uncertainty that aligns with the task of rewriting the sentence in a more tentative way.
Option C:
Definitely - Similar to "certainly," this word conveys certainty and does not make the statement more tentative.
Option D:
Absolutely - This also implies certainty, making it unsuitable for rewriting the sentence in a more tentative manner.
27.
Firstly, eating vegetables produces less waste than meat or fish.This sentence is giving a(n) .....
A) Evidence.
B) Explanation.
C) Reason.
D) Topic Sentence / Thesis.
Show Answer
Explanations:
This sentence provides a reason for the statement that eating vegetables is more environmentally friendly compared to consuming meat or fish, as it highlights the lower waste production associated with vegetables.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Evidence - This option is incorrect because evidence typically refers to factual data or examples supporting a claim.
Option B:
Explanation - This option is not entirely accurate as the sentence does explain why eating vegetables produces less waste, but it primarily provides a reason for this fact.
Option C:
Reason - This option is correct because the sentence gives a rationale or explanation of why eating vegetables results in less waste than meat or fish consumption.
Option D:
Topic Sentence / Thesis - This option is incorrect as it refers to an introductory statement that usually outlines the main idea of a paragraph or essay, not a supporting detail like this sentence.
28.
The crowd mustn't forget to applaud both teams.
A) Mustnot.
B) Must not.
C) Mustn't.
D) None of the above.
Show Answer
Explanations:
Option B is correct because "Must not" is the proper contraction for "must not" in British English, which is commonly used in formal writing to express a strong obligation or prohibition. The other options are incorrect: Option A uses an incomplete negative form that does not fit grammatically; Option C omits the space required between "must" and "n't"; Option D suggests none of the above, which is not applicable since B is correct.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Incorrect due to incomplete contraction.
Option B:
Correct form in British English.
Option C:
Missing space between "must" and "n't".
Option D:
Not applicable as option B is correct.
29.
You should cite the sources you use properly.
A) YES.
B) NO.
C) All the above.
D) None of the above.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The correct answer is A) YES, because citing sources properly in academic writing is a fundamental feature that ensures the credibility and integrity of the work. Proper citation acknowledges the original authors and provides readers with references to verify information or delve deeper into the topic.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Correct. Citing sources properly is essential for maintaining academic honesty and providing evidence for claims.
Option B:
Incorrect. Not citing sources can lead to plagiarism and undermine the credibility of the work.
Option C:
Incorrect. This option does not apply as it suggests all options are correct, which is not the case here.
Option D:
Incorrect. None of the above is not applicable since one of the given options (A) is indeed correct.
30.
Find the academic way of writing.
A) The researcher got pretty good results.
B) The researcher obtained encouraging results.
C) All the above.
D) None of the above.
Show Answer
Explanations:
Option B is correct because "obtained encouraging results" uses formal language appropriate for academic writing, which is more precise and objective than the colloquial phrase in Option A. Academic writing typically avoids overly casual expressions to maintain a professional tone.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
The use of "pretty good" is informal and subjective, not suitable for academic writing.
Option B:
This option uses formal language that aligns with the standards of academic writing.
Option C:
Option A is incorrect; therefore, this cannot be correct.
Option D:
At least one appropriate answer exists, making this choice incorrect.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is academic coherence in writing?
Academic coherence refers to the clear and logical flow of ideas within a piece of writing, ensuring that each part supports the overall argument or thesis. It involves using transitions and maintaining consistency in style and tone.
Why is evidence important in academic writing?
Evidence, such as data, research findings, or expert opinions, supports arguments and enhances the credibility of an academic paper. It helps to back up claims with factual information, making the writing more persuasive and reliable.
What are some key features of academic language?
Academic language is characterized by formal tone, precise vocabulary, and clear structure. It avoids colloquialisms, contractions, and overly casual expressions, focusing on clarity and precision in communication.
How does critical analysis contribute to academic writing?
Critical analysis involves evaluating and interpreting information from various sources. It helps writers to form their own opinions, identify strengths and weaknesses in arguments, and develop a nuanced understanding of the topic being discussed.
What is the purpose of an abstract in academic writing?
An abstract provides a concise summary of the main points, methodology, and conclusions of a research paper. It serves as a brief overview for readers to quickly understand the content without reading the entire document.