Response to Jeff Schafer

One of the points that I found interesting in Jeff's post was about varying sentence lengths. I have also tried to create variety in my writing, although I am not sure that I am always successful in it. I also liked that Jeff mentioned that sentences that vary in length actually allow ideas to be communicated in a more effective way. Sentence length is important not only to have variety in writing, but to express the relationship between ideas or to emphasize them. I also agree with Jeff about using plain, clear words instead of fancy ones. Since we are to take a reader-centered approach, we need to focus on what will be most useful for the readers, not just make the writer look intelligent. If the readers believe that a writer is just trying to show off, they create a negative attitude toward the writer and are less likely to be persuaded.

Ch. 8/19 Readings

I think chapter 8 was useful because having an effective style is necessary for a reader-centered approach. One of the points that I hadn't considered a lot is that it is important to simplify sentences. I noticed that sometimes in an attempt to establish authority, a writer may use difficult words and sentences. However, this decreases the usability for the readers. Instead, it is better to select strong words to stress what is important. There was also a section about using specialized terms. In my experience, I know how difficult it is to ask for help on a certain subject, only to receive a reply full of terms you don't understand. At the end, you end up exactly in the same place.

Chapter 19 focused on project management strategy. I don't have a lot of experience in this area, which is why I think this information will be useful. I think one of the most important points in this chapter was establishing a plan and schedule. I know that it is easier for me to complete any project when I have a plan. This will allow me to see what I need to do and how much time I have to do it.