Harty pgs. 49-113

Topics of Discussion
-Bigger words are not always better unless it conveys meaning better.
-If you cannot speak the words, don't write them.
-"I" is legitamate but not "I believe." Instead use "In my research, I have found" (w/footnote)
-There is a movement away from complete objectivity in scientific writing.
-To make language more complicated does not mean to elevate it, and to simplify language does not me to bring it down.
-Be yourself when you write because this is what takes real self-confidence. We are taught to write according to guidelines of others- for instance, "What does the professor want?"
-Very important: "Content might defeat them, but the form will not." pg. 81 Even when the audience cannot understand the words of the writing because of lack of previous knowledge, they should be able to follow it. Otherwise, writing has no purpose.
-Your understanding of what you are writing is actually judged by how well you can make someone else understand.
-Email ediquette is very subjective because of lack of body language, tone, etc.
-Active language is much more suitable for arguing a case; passive does have its own place though.
-Don't get caught up in word counting- understanding should be the main objective.