Properties of a Well-Written Text

In academic terms, a text is defined as written material or piece of writing such as an

article, essay, book, magazine, or newspaper.
For a paragraph or any composition to be effective, it must always consider the properties
of a well- written text which includes organization, cohesion and coherence, language use, and
mechanics.
1. Organization
This is also known as an arrangement that refers to the structural framework for writing.
A text is considered organized when ideas are accurately and logically arranged with a focus on
the arrangements of ideas, incidents, evidence, or details in a definite order in a paragraph, essay,
or speech.
The logical progression and completeness of ideas in a text is an organization. This
property makes a text readable and its message clear. Organization can be achieved through the
following techniques: text structure, signal words, and physical format.
Text structure refers to the framework of a text’s beginning, middle, and end. Different
narrative and expository genres have different purposes and different audiences, so they require
different text structures. Beginnings and endings help link the text into a coherent whole.
Three major parts of a text

Example:
The great body parts of a snow leopard help it survive in the mountains. For example, a
snow leopard?s paws are like sandpaper and that helps them not slipping on the deadly
rocks of the mountains. Amazingly, the ears help it hear an animal?s footsteps from miles
away from where the snow leopard is located. Did you know that a snow leopard?s tail
helps keep it from falling? The long tail helps it to balance. Finally, the fur on a snow
leopard?s body helps it stay warm in this frigid habitat. So, all those body parts of a snow
leopard help it survive in the mountains.
Source: Assanosi, A. (2016). Paragraph Organization
  The italicized statement is the beginning part of the text which serves as the topic
sentence.
 The highlighted statements cover the body/middle part of the paragraph which explains in
detail how snow leopard body parts help this animal survive in the mountains.
 The underlined statement found in the last part of the restates the thesis/main idea of the
text

If text structures serve as the framework, signal words are textual cues that readers use to
follow a text. They can 5signal” the transition from one point to another , the ordering of
events and concepts, or the writer’s chosen text type.

Example:

Comparing the British and American Education System

The British system of education is common not only in England but also in countries all over the
world that were once British colonies. It differs from the American system in some ways. First, most
American children have only one year of kindergarten, beginning at age five. Under the British system,
children begin kindergarten at age four and then go on to another year or more advanced kindergarten
called preparatory which is comparable to American first grade. Starting in seventh grade, most American
students study basic subjects separately, devoting a semester to algebra. However, under the British
system, algebra, geometry ,and trigonometry are taught together in a single course that is then repeated at
a higher level every term. Also, in American high schools some classes, particularly elective may include
sophomores, juniors, and seniors. In schools run according to the British system, students at different
levels, or 5forms,” are not mixed in classes; each form attends all its classes altogether. Finally, American
students generally graduate after their twelfth year of course work. British students, on the other hand,
finish everything they need to learn in secondary school during the first term of the eleventh year of
school.
Notice that the signal words which are highlighted in the text above are used to show the
relationship from one statement to another. Through the use of signal words, the writer clearly
presents the similarities and differences between the British and American education systems.

Another aspect of the organization that is immediately apparent to the reader is the
format. It is observed in how the text physically appears like headings and subheadings, bullet
points, or font emphasis.

Consider the example below.

Marxist ideology has three main theories. Historical materialism purports that
all the features of society can be historically traced back to economic activity. Social
class in capitalist societies is what produces unjust structures of power that exist today.
Socialism would be the next rational step for the development of human society.

The highlighted words are the three most important Marxist theories that the topic
sentence is referring to. Through such emphasis, the reader can easily identify the appropriate
term for the concepts together with their definitions. However, this technique must be used
carefully for improper or superfluous formatting may confuse the readers.

2. Coherence and cohesion

When ideas are organized well, a text can achieve coherence and cohesion. Coherence
refers to the overall sense of unity in a text. On the other hand, cohesion is the connection of
ideas both at the sentence level and at the paragraph level. Both should be present to make your
text easier for your readers to follow and understand.

To achieve coherence and cohesion, one technique is to use signal devices which that hint
readers on how the points in your paragraph are a progression. This can be shown in the
paragraphs using transitions, repetitions, synonyms, pronouns, and parallel structures.

1. Transitions refer to words that connect one idea to another, making the writer’s
ideas flow smoothly.

Category Transition Words

causation thus, therefore, since, on account of, hence, for that reason, consequently,
because, and so, as a result, accordingly
time first, afterward, before, after, earlier, eventually, then, meanwhile, now,
next, also
sequence furthermore, moreover, next, also, finally, last, besides, additionally
contrast after all, otherwise, though, yet, notwithstanding, nonetheless, in contrast,
however, despite, conversely
comparison in like manner, in similar fashion, in the same way, likewise, still, in
comparison, too
example as an illustration, to demonstrate, to illustrate, for instance, for example,
specifically, that is
location above, adjacent to,wherever, there, peripherally, opposite to, nearby, here,
centrally, beyond
importance primarily, of less importance, foundationally, critically, chiefly, most
importantly
intensification in fact, without doubt, undoubtedly, surely, to repeat, of course, indeed, no,
yes
concession granted, it is true, naturally, to be sure, of course

purpose to this end, so that, in order that, for this purpose

summary to sum up, to summarize, in summary, in short, in sum, in brief

conclusion to conclude, in the end, in conclusion, lastly, finally, thus, therefore

 2. Repetitions include a word, a phrase, or a full sentence repeated to highlight its importance
in the entire text. The repetition of the main ideas keeps continuity and helps the readers
remain focused and headed in the right direction.

Examples:
1. The president said, <Work, work, and work,= are the keys to success.
2. If you think you can make it, you can make it.
3. Most students are intimated by the works of William Shakespeare. They believe
Shakepeare’s sonnets and plays are far too complicated to read and understand.

3. Synonyms are words similar in meaning to important words or phrases. This technique is
used if direct repetition is too obvious.

Example:

Teenagers face an enormous amount of peer pressure from friends. Hence, many
young adults are showing signs of great stress or depression at an early age.

4. Pronouns are used to connect sentences by referring to preceding nouns and pronouns.
They can also help create paragraphs readable by removing wordiness and unnecessary
repetition.

Examples:

1. Rodrigo R. Duterte is the 16th President of the Republic of the Philippines.

Moreover, he also served as Davao City’s Mayor for a long period of time. He is
also known by many as a strong leader.

2. Mrs. Gomez approved to have a meeting with the workers’ union before she signed
the contract. She was willing to hear their concerns about the newly proposed
amendments in the company.
5. Parallel Structures include the use of matching words, phrases, clauses, or sentence
structures to express similar ideas. It allows the reader to understand the connections
between ideas and to flow smoothly from one idea, sentence, or paragraph to the next.
Example:
In the conference hall, the students attended a lecture where the speaker demonstrated how
to properly wear a PPE. They also attended a lecture where their school nurse explained how
to keep one’s health protected from COVID-19.

3. Language Use

It refers to the appropriateness of word/vocabulary usage. Proper language use enables

you, the writer, to capture the message that you want to give to your readers. Language use is
one of the strongest indicators of a well-written text because it leads writers to effectively
communicate ideas without confusing the reader.
Six characteristics of effective language:
1. concrete and specific, not vague and abstract
2. concise, not verbose
3. familiar, not obscure
4. precise, not ambiguous
5. constructive, not destructive
6. appropriately formal

Concrete and Specific Language

Concrete language involves tangible qualities/characteristics and things we know through our
senses. Specific language designates particular items or individuals cases.
Consider the examples below.

Abstract Concrete
To excel in college, you’ll have to work hard. To excel in college, you’ll need to attend
every class; do all your reading before you fo;
write several drafts of each paper; and review
your notes for each class weekly.
General Specific
The student enjoyed the class. Rhea enjoyed Mr. Gallardo’s 8:00 a.m.
EAPP class.

Observe how statements become more effective as the language becomes more concrete and
specific. In contrast, abstract and general statements can generate multiple interpretations, and
leave many questions unanswered.

Concise Language
It involves using the most appropriate terms to get one’s point across. Concise language means
using a minimal amount of effective terms to convey one’s argument. To make the sentence
more succinct, writers must avoid unnecessary words in their sentences.

Verbose/Wordy Concise
Leah believed but could not verify that Leah assumed that James adored her.
James had feelings of affection for her.
My professor demonstrated some of the My professor demonstrated methods for
ways and methods for cutting words from my cutting words from my essay.
essay that I had written for the class.
Ludwig’s castles are an Ludwig’s three castles are an astounding
astounding marriage of beauty and madness.
marriage of beauty and madness. By his death,
he had commissioned three castles.

Familiar Language
It refers to words/ terms that the reader easily recognizes and understands because they use them
regularly. The message has a greater effect when using vocabulary that is familiar to the reader.
Unfamiliar Familiar
After our perusal of pertinent data, the The data we studied show that your
conclusion is that a lucrative market exists property is profitable and in high demand.
for the subject property.

The use of unfamiliar language or highfalutin words can eliminate the essence of the
message like in both examples below:

A letter sent to senior high school students warning them of the risks of an unhealthy diet:
“Individuals who maintain a diet of high-fat consent are exposed to an increased risk
of developing atherosclerosis, which is a buildup of fat deposits on the inner walls of the
arteries. This condition can reduce or cut off the flow of blood in the arteries serving the major
organs of the body. This can lead to poor health.”

An assignment given to a class of ABM students by their philosophy teacher:

“The presently assigned paper necessitates an eloquently articulated analysis of the

Existentialist perspective as it pertains to contemporary living. You should adumbrate the
points which represent the sine qua non of your analysis.”
Precise Language
Through the use of precise language, vocabulary of specific nouns ,and vivid verbs, you can
construct clear mental images and avoid wordiness. Moreover, the use of concise language, using
the fewest possible words without sacrificing meaning, makes your writing more understandable.

Precise writing replaces vague terms for accurate nouns and active verbs.
Examples:

Imprecise Precise
Entrepreneurs use professional writing skills Entrepreneurs use professional writing skills
to communicate with others. to communicate effectively with clients and
business partners.
Research is taught early in the academic Research is taught to first-year university
world. students.

Constructive Language
The use of constructive language expresses a potentially negative in a positive way, while
destructive language leads the reader to blame and criticism, causing defensiveness.

Destructive Constructive
The problem is.. The challenge is..
What you do not understand is .. Let me explain in a different way.
It is not my problem. How can I help?

Formality of Language
The formality of the language used should conform to the formality of the situation and the
relationship between the writer and the reader. Consider the following examples.

Very Formal Formal Informal

Exceedingly large segments of A large number of consumers are A lot of people are
the population are expressing complaining about medical unhappy with their doctors
their discontent with medical doctors who are apparently more who only seem to care
practitioners who appear to interested in making money than about how much money
more engrossed in amassing in providing effective health they make, and not giving
financial assets than in care. their patients good care.
providing efficacious care to
people with health
disorders.

Depending on the reader, the writer’s relationship with the reader, and the
circumstance, the three examples may be suitable.
In one case, it might be appropriate to note that the language will be entirely permissible in
another. Therefore, it is necessary to consider the objectives of your writing, and use language
that is consistent with your objectives.

Take note.

Colloquial Informal Semi-Formal Formal Language

Language Language Language
Audience Close friends, General General Specialized
family
Purpose Immediate Expression of Expression ofExpression and
communication ideas of a ideas of general
development of
personal nature interest ideas within the
course
Contractions and Common Contractions, yes; Generally avoided Avoided
slang slang, no
First/ Second Common Used for Used only to Avoided
Person rhetorical effect clarify meaning
Sentence Whatever conveys Complete correct Sentences are Sentences are
Structure meaning sentences are complete and complete and
used, but correct. correct.
not
always

4. Mechanics

These are conventions that have to be considered in writing. Spelling, punctuation, and
capitalization are some of the examples. To prevent confusion, it is necessary to know and
follow these conventions in writing.
1. Spelling
When you write, always make sure that you are consistently using one standard regarding
the spelling of your words. Remember that there are slight differences in American English
spelling and British English spelling.

American Spelling British Spelling

airplane aeroplane
analyze analyse
anesthesia anaesthesia
aging ageing
color colour
defense defence
learned learnt
organize organise
theater theatre
traveled travelled

2. Punctuation
It is the act of using a system of symbols used to provide structure to and organize a text,
such as a comma, period, quotation marks, question marks, etc. The use of punctuation
directs the reader to interpret the text.

Punctuation Marks Uses

1. Commas , a. A) Use a comma to separate items in a series. If all items in the
series are followed by and or or, use a comma
Example:
Squirrel, rabbit, and venison are the three kinds of meat
originally in a burgoo.
b.
c. B) Use a comma to separate two complete sentences joined by a
conjunction (and, but, or, nor, or for, and sometimes yet and so).
d. Example:
We ran out of gas, so I went to the nearest gas refilling
station.
e. Use commas to set off dates and addresses
f. Examples: January 08, 2021/ Davao City, Philippines
2. Semicolons ; a) A) Use a semicolon to separate two sentences when there is no
coordinating conjunction such as and, but, or, nor, or for.
Example: Class was canceled today; Mr. Diaz was homesick.

b) B) If the two sentences are joined by a conjunctive adverb, such

as however, consequently, therefore, or moreover, use a
semicolon before the conjunctive adverb and a comma after it.
Example:Leaves fell from the trees in multiple colors;
consequenty, we have a big job ahead for us raking them into
compost piles.

c. C) Use a semicolon to separate two sentences joined with

coordinating conjunction when commas are contained within
either of the sentences.
E Example: Leaves fell from the trees in red, gold, yellow, and
brown; and it looked like snow with a rainbow.

d. D) Use a semicolon to separate items in a series if there are

commas within the items
E
Example: Ms. Dapar, my friend; Mr. Diaz, my neighbor; and Ms.
Lastimosa, my MAPEH teacher all pledged to support the
program.
3. Colon : a. Use colon for conventional items: giving the time, separating
chapter from a verse in Bible references, separating volume
from a page in bibliography references, and writing a salutation
in a business letter.
Examples: 5:30 a.m./ Luke 4:17-28/ Dear Madam:

b. Use a colon to introduce a formal list. Words such as the

following or as follows frequently signal a formal list.
Example: The attendant made the following checks on my car: oil
Level, transmission fluid level, battery, tire
pressure, and windshield washer fluid.
Apostrophe > An apostrophe is used as a substitute for a missing letter or
letters in a word (as in the contraction cannot = can't), to show the
possessive case (Jane's room), and in the plural of letters, some
numbers and abbreviations. Note: groups of years no longer
require an apostrophe (for example, the 1950s or the 90s).

Dash ---- A dash is used to separate parts of a sentence. Example:

The dash is also known as an "em dash" because it is the length of
a printed letter m 4 it is longer than a hyphen
 Ellipsis ... An ellipsis (three dots) indicates that part of the text has been
intentionally been left out.
Example: 0, 2, 4, ... , 100

Exclamation point ! An exclamation point is used to show excitement or emphasis.

Example: It is cold!

Hyphen - A hyphen is used between parts of a compound word or name. It

is also used to split a word by syllables to fit on a line of text.
Example: The sixteen-year-old girl is a full-time student.

Parentheses () Parentheses are curved lines used to separate explanations or

qualifying statements within a sentence (each one of the curved
lines is called a parenthesis). The part in the parentheses is called
a parenthetical remark.
Example: This sentence (like others on this page) contains a
parenthetical remark.
Period . A period is used to note the end of a declarative sentence.
Example: I am busy.
Question mark ? A question mark is used at the end of a question. Example:
Where are you?
Quotation mark “ Quotation marks are used at the beginning and end of a phrase to
show that it is being written exactly as it was originally said or
written.

Example: She said, "Let's eat."

3. Capitalization
Capitalization, like punctuation, helps express details. Any sentence’s first word is
capitalized, signaling that a new sentence has started. To signify uniqueness, proper nouns are
capitalized. However, using capitalization merely to make a word appear or sound significant is
not right.
Below are few examples of words that require capitalization:
Proper nouns Examples : Arthur, Davao City
Proper adjectives Examples : Chinese, Filipino
Days of the week Examples : Sunday, Monday
Months of the year Examples: January, February
Specific Course Titles Example : Theater 101
Kinship names used in place of Examples: Grandpa, Mom,
personal name and are followed by personal Aunt Selly, Uncle Ben
names
Historical periods, events, documents Examples: Great Depression,
the Renaissance, the Constitution