"Good writing is clear, honest, vibrant, authoritative, rhythmic, and memorable. The best of writing, whether prose or poetry, makes use of playful and imaginative language. Good writing is economical and does not waste words."

These are some aspects of good writing. In other words, good writing has all these characteristics. The better these characteristics are displayed, the better the writing.

1. Meaning or content -- Is the piece of writing more than just "empty words?"

2. Authority -- Has the writer shown knowledge about the topic through the use of specific, accurate, and up-to-date information?

3. Voice -- Is the writer's own personality evident in the writing? Or, is the writing wooden, stilted, or simply mediocre?

4. Design -- Is the form of writing (expository, narrative, etc.) pertinent to the goal of the written piece? Is the work well-structured, appropriately ordered, and logical? Are the ideas developed well?

5. Clarity -- Does the writing present correct information simply and in an easy to follow manner?

6. Conventions -- Are the spelling, punctuation, and grammar correct?

7. Attitude -- Is the writer excited or interested in communicating about the topic with the reader?

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On Good Writing

<http://www.lcsc.edu/amarshal/write/wGoodWriting.htm>

v 1.0, Adelbert.

 Last update: 04.04.08