Editing & Revising — Answer Key
Part A: Fill in the Blank
Write the missing word or number on each line.
1. Adding specific details makes your writing more interesting and convincing.
Specific details (examples, facts, descriptions) strengthen writing by making it concrete.
2. A sentence that does not support the main idea is called off-topic.
Off-topic sentences distract the reader and weaken the paragraph's focus.
3. Reordering sentences to improve the flow of ideas is part of revising.
Reorganizing for better flow is a revision task focused on improving the structure of ideas.
4. Replacing the word "good" with "outstanding" improves your word choice.
Word choice (diction) revision replaces vague or weak words with precise, vivid ones.
5. The topic sentence of a paragraph should clearly state the main idea.
The topic sentence introduces the main idea and sets the focus for the entire paragraph.
6. Varying sentence length makes your writing smoother and more engaging.
Mixing short and long sentences creates rhythm and prevents monotony in writing.
7. A strong conclusion restates the main idea and leaves the reader thinking.
A strong concluding sentence or paragraph restates the main idea and provides closure.
8. When revising, ask yourself if each paragraph has a clear main idea.
Each paragraph should have one clear main idea supported by relevant details.
9. Reading your writing aloud helps you hear awkward sentences that need revision.
Reading aloud activates the auditory sense, making it easier to hear awkward phrasing or rhythm.
Part B: Matching
Match each item on the left to the correct answer on the right.
1. Match each item to its correct answer.
Remove a sentence about your pet from a paragraph about recycling.
→ Deleting off-topic information that weakens the focus
Adding supporting details to strengthen your argument
Add an example of how composting reduces landfill waste.
→ Adding supporting details to strengthen your argument
Reordering ideas so the paragraph flows logically
Move the conclusion sentence from the middle to the end of the paragraph.
→ Reordering ideas so the paragraph flows logically
Improving word choice with precise vocabulary
Replace the word "stuff" with "recyclable materials" in your essay.
→ Improving word choice with precise vocabulary
Deleting off-topic information that weakens the focus
Removing pet sentence = delete off-topic; adding composting example = add details; moving conclusion = reorder; replacing 'stuff' = word choice.