Take our writing style test
. . . and discover what kind of business writer you are. For each set of sentences below, which of the four options comes closest to the way you write?
Set 1
1a – If what we’re saying resignates with you, and even if it doesn’t, it’d be grate to hear from you ;).
1b – Should customers wish to comment on this issue, feedback submissions can be made via the company’s IT-based communications interface.
1c – We are always keen to hear our customers’ views – that is why we set up our dedicated email facility which we launched on 1st April 2010, since when we have received an impressive 3,012 responses from clients and interested members of the public – so contact us now.
1d – Email us now – we would love to hear what you think.
Set 2
2a – The people supposed to be looking after the computers misunderestimated what they had to do.
2b – To our regret, the issues you have been experiencing were due to a quality issue relating to the delivery of the IT-based system that is currently utilised in-house and a review to identify lessons and learning points is now ongoing.
2c – The 3.25 hour interruption to service experienced by customers on the morning of May 24th 2013, was the result of a rare but highly virulent file infector virus which entered our centralised IT system during a scheduled bi-monthly update of anti-virus software, for which we are sorry.
2d – We apologise for the unfortunate break in service, which was caused by problems with our IT system.
Set 3
3a – From now on no-one can cancellate the deal without giving 3 days’ notice!
3b – Going forward, cancellation of this agreement can only be delivered upon receipt of written notification of your intention to cancel three days prior to the cancellation.
3c – Our terms and conditions, which were revised on 1st September 2013, stipulate that in order for us to perform all the administrative tasks that are required to process cancellation requests and update our records, we can only accept cancellations where we have been notified in writing three days in advance.
3d – Should you wish to cancel the agreement, under our new policy you must inform us in writing three days in advance.
Mostly As? – It’s back to the classroom for you, or next time get a grown-up to help!
Mostly Bs? – Find a job that demands verbal subterfuge or apply some Plain English.
Mostly Cs? – Take pity on your audience and learn to get straight to the point.
Mostly Ds? – Give yourself a ‘V for Victory; Great English Needs You!
For more insight into your writing style and how to improve it, click on the links for each score.
