Multiple Choice Questions
Professional and Technical Writing
Topic: Business Communication
Grade: 12
Question 1:
Which of the following is an example of an indirect approach in business writing?
A) Starting the email with a friendly greeting
B) Presenting the main point at the beginning of the email
C) Providing background information before stating the main point
D) Using bullet points to organize information
Answer: C) Providing background information before stating the main point
Explanation: The indirect approach in business writing involves providing background information or context before getting to the main point. This approach is often used when delivering bad news or making a request that may be difficult for the recipient to accept. For example, if a company needs to announce layoffs, they may start the email by explaining the current economic situation and the challenges the company is facing before getting to the news of the layoffs. This approach helps soften the impact of the main point and allows the reader to better understand the reasoning behind it.
Question 2:
Which of the following is an example of a persuasive writing technique?
A) Using clear and concise language
B) Including relevant data and statistics
C) Structuring the writing with headings and subheadings
D) Appealing to the emotions of the reader
Answer: D) Appealing to the emotions of the reader
Explanation: Persuasive writing techniques aim to convince the reader to adopt a particular viewpoint or take a specific action. One effective technique is appealing to the emotions of the reader. For example, a charity organization may use heart-wrenching stories of individuals in need to evoke feelings of compassion and empathy, thereby motivating readers to donate. Another example is a political campaign ad that uses patriotic imagery and stirring music to appeal to the emotions of voters. By connecting on an emotional level, persuasive writing can be more impactful and influential.
Question 3:
When writing a business report, which of the following should be included in the conclusion section?
A) A summary of the main findings and recommendations
B) Detailed background information on the topic
C) Personal opinions and anecdotes
D) References to external sources
Answer: A) A summary of the main findings and recommendations
Explanation: The conclusion section of a business report should provide a concise summary of the main findings and recommendations. This section aims to summarize the key points discussed in the report and offer actionable suggestions for the reader. Including detailed background information or personal opinions would be more appropriate in the introduction or body sections of the report. References to external sources, such as research studies or industry reports, should be included in the reference list or cited within the body of the report.
Question 4:
Which of the following is an example of an appropriate subject line for a business email?
A) \”Meeting Request\”
B) \”Urgent: Important Information\”
C) \”Hey, can you help me out?\”
D) \”Company Update\”
Answer: A) \”Meeting Request\”
Explanation: An appropriate subject line for a business email should be clear and specific. \”Meeting Request\” accurately describes the purpose of the email and allows the recipient to quickly understand the content. \”Urgent: Important Information\” is too vague and does not provide enough detail. \”Hey, can you help me out?\” is too informal and lacks professionalism. \”Company Update\” is too broad and does not indicate the specific topic or purpose of the email.
Question 5:
Which of the following is an example of active voice in business writing?
A) \”The report was written by John.\”
B) \”The meeting was attended by all employees.\”
C) \”The project will be completed by the end of the month.\”
D) \”The email was sent by the marketing department.\”
Answer: A) \”The report was written by John.\”
Explanation: Active voice is preferred in business writing as it is more direct and concise. In active voice, the subject of the sentence performs the action. In this example, \”John\” is the subject and performs the action of \”writing the report.\” The other options are in passive voice, where the subject receives the action. For example, in option B, \”all employees\” are the subject, but they do not perform the action of \”attending the meeting.\” Instead, the action is done to them.