How to Edit a Sentence

摘要

Editors can ask five questions to tell if a sentence needs editing, such as "Can it be read aloud easily?" and "Is it clear who does what?" Several questions help improve sentences, such as "Are any important ideas stated in subordinate clauses?" Editors can use six guidelines, including "rely on familiar word order," "avoid splitting subjects and verbs," "state actions in verbs," "rely on active voice," "avoid unnecessary subordination," and "state important ideas in main clauses." These questions and guidelines help editors and writers improve their ability to recognize sentences that need editing and to edit sentences effectively.