Module $2$: Practice Exercises

When re$-$writing sentences, you may replace any words, the order of words, and add in concrete information when specific details would be helpful to the audience.

$1.$ Rewrite using the $$you$$ attitude: We insist that you always bring your credit card to the store.

$2.$ Rewrite using the $$you$$ attitude: I can$$t get my reports in on time if you won$$t finalize the sales data.

$3.$ Rewrite in a more positive way: To avoid damage to your credit rating, please remit payment within $10$ days.

$4.$ Rewrite in a more positive way: We don$$t make refunds on returned merchandise that is soiled.

$5.$ Rewrite in a courteous way: You claim that you mailed your cheque last Thursday but we have not yet received it$.$

$6.$ Rewrite in a courteous way: You neglected to sign the enclosed contract.

$7.$ Rewrite to eliminate bias: A pilot must have the ability to stay calm under pressure and then he must be trained to cope with any problem that arises.

$8.$ Replace long, complicated words with short, simple ones: Management inaugurated the recycling policy six months ago.

$9.$ Replace long, complicated words with short, simple ones: You can convey the same meaning without utilizing the same words.

$10.$ Replace long, complicated words with short, simple ones: You$$ll never be promoted unless you endeavour to be more patient.

$11.$ Replace outdated expressions with up$-$to$-$date versions: I have completed the form and returned it to my insurance company, as per your instructions.

$12.$ Replace outdated expressions with up$-$to$-$date versions: Attached herewith is a copy of our new contract for your records.

$13.$ Make this sentence active instead of passive: The raw data are submitted to the data$-$processing division by the sales representative each Friday.

$14.$ Make this sentence active instead of passive: The employees were represented by Jane Hogan.

$15.$ Replace the underlined vague$/$abstract phrases with concrete phrases: We will be opening our new facility sometime this spring.

$16.$ Replace the underlined vague$/$abstract phrases with concrete phrases: After the reception, we were surprised that such a large number attended.

$17.$ Replace the cliches with fresh, personal expressions: Don$$t hesitate to call our office any time.

$18.$ Replace the cliches with fresh, personal expressions: You are our valued customers. Please feel free to send us your questions.

$19.$ Replace the cliches with fresh, personal expressions: Thank you in advance for your cooperation on this matter.