Improving Sentence Conciseness for SAT Writing Success
Introduction
The SAT Writing and Language section rewards sentences that are clear, concise, and free of unnecessary words. Conciseness is about conveying an idea efficiently without losing meaning.
This guide will help you:
- Identify and eliminate wordiness.
- Understand the rules of concise writing.
- Practise with SAT-style examples to improve accuracy.
What is Sentence Conciseness?
Conciseness means using fewer words to express the same idea.
Wordy Example:
Due to the fact that he was tired, he decided to take a nap.
Concise Version:
Because he was tired, he took a nap.
Common Types of Wordiness
Redundant Words
Eliminate words or phrases that repeat the same meaning.
Example:
- Wordy: The students gathered together at the park.
- Concise: The students gathered at the park.
Unnecessary Modifiers
Avoid overly descriptive words that add no new meaning.
Example:
- Wordy: She was very tired after the extremely long race.
- Concise: She was exhausted after the long race.
Excessive Phrases
Replace long phrases with shorter equivalents.
Example:
- Wordy: In the event that it rains, the picnic will be cancelled.
- Concise: If it rains, the picnic will be cancelled.
Strategies to Improve Sentence Conciseness
- Identify Redundancies: Look for words that repeat the same idea.
- Simplify Phrases: Use single words to replace long expressions.
- Combine Sentences: Merge related ideas into one clear sentence.
Practice Examples
Example 1: Redundant Words
Question: Choose the most concise version.
- The car was blue in color and small in size.
B. The car was blue and small.
Solution: B removes redundant phrases like “in color” and “in size.”
Example 2: Unnecessary Phrases
Question: Choose the most concise version.
- Due to the fact that he studied, he passed.
B. Because he studied, he passed.
Solution: B replaces “Due to the fact that” with “Because.”
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overusing Modifiers: Avoid words like “very” or “extremely.”
- Repeating Ideas: Don’t use multiple words for the same meaning.
- Ignoring Context: Ensure the concise version retains the original meaning.
Quick Tips for Conciseness
- Use active voice instead of passive voice.
- Passive: The book was read by the student.
- Active: The student read the book.
- Avoid filler phrases like “it is,” “there is,” or “in order to.”
- Use strong, precise words.
Summary
Improving sentence conciseness on the SAT Writing section involves identifying redundancies, simplifying phrases, and combining ideas efficiently. By focusing on clear and direct writing, you’ll eliminate wordiness and increase your score.
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