Rules of Thumb: A Guide for Writers

by Jay Silverman, Elaine Hughes (Other Contributor), Diana Roberts Wienbroer (Other Contributor)

This is aimed at those who love to write and those who have to write. "Rules of Thumb" is a quick reference guide that tries to reduce each writing problem to a few practical points - enabling the reader to write with confidence. It is a brief, inexpensive, and easy-to-use handbook written in plain English and exhibiting a friendly voice that is reassuring and stands out in a sea of grammar books that preach decorum. Part 1 - correctness, covers the most common mistakes. These rules are placed first because they are what most writers worry about and will want to have handy. Part 2 - meeting specific assignments, offers help with writing under time pressure and writing reports. Part 3 - putting a paper together, helps the writer with both content and style issues-such as if one needs to make a paper longer or is faced with choppy sentences. Part 4 - writing with elegance, offers ways to grow as a writer.

Genres: Writing, Reference, Nonfiction

132 pages, Paperback

First published December 1, 1990

Reviews

[Kaylyn Gabbert · Rating 5 out of 5]

The book is thorough and talks about everything anyone who starts writing. It fully explains MLA format which will help anyone writing essays in that format for school or another reason. It teaches you how to find things like your voice and more.

[Eri · Rating 5 out of 5]

A very practical, easy to learn and thorough handbook for everyone who wishes to start write effectively, especially scientific/academic writing purpose.

[Emily · Rating 4 out of 5]

Excellent and clearly organized writing handbook. Full disclosure: author is a personal friend.

['stefani · Rating 5 out of 5]

Got me through college

[Laurel Kenneweg · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great resource. Clear and useful. Would definitely assign this for students in a lit or composition class.