**Title: Academic Writing: Structure, Clarity, and Style**

Sentences and Paragraphs

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Use of Paragraphs

  • Structure Ideas: Paragraphs are essential for organizing thoughts and presenting information logically.
    • Main Points: Each main idea should be clearly separated into different paragraphs. This helps to prevent confusion and enhances readability.

Components of a Paragraph

  • Structure: A well-formed paragraph generally includes:
    • Topic Sentence: Introduces the main idea of the paragraph.
    • Support Sentences: Several sentences that elaborate and support the topic.
    • Optional Concluding Sentence: Summarizes the point or provides a transition to the next paragraph.

Topic Sentence

  • Placement: Typically found at the beginning or within the first two sentences of a paragraph.
    • Importance: It sets the tone and direction for the rest of the paragraph.
  • Clarity: It should be straightforward to ensure readers understand the central argument or point.

Supporting Details

  • Expanded Explanation: After the topic sentence, the paragraph should include several supporting sentences that provide evidence or examples for the topic.
    • Types of Evidence:
      • Data
      • Facts
      • Quotations
      • Statistics
      • Research findings
      • Theoretical arguments
    • Purpose of Evidence: To substantiate claims made in the topic sentence and provide depth and credibility to the argument.

Reference:

wts.indiana.edu
Paragraphs & Topic Sentences - Writing Tutorial Services
stlcc.edu
Topic Sentence and Paragraph - St. Louis Community College
opentextbc.ca
Chapter 6. Working toward the End Product: Composing a Draft

Notes on Cultural Heritage and Tourism

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  1. Cultural Heritage as Attractions

    • Many cultural heritage assets are suited to be attractions because they reflect the unique history, lifestyle, or environment of a place.
    • Thoughts: This emphasizes the value of preserving cultural heritage; tourism can be an avenue for this if executed properly.
    • Additional Info: Cultural heritage tourism can promote local economies while fostering greater appreciation for local traditions and practices.

  2. Incomplete Knowledge in Tourism Development

    • The decision to pursue cultural tourism often occurs without fully understanding the potential negative impacts or the requirements for successful development.
    • Thoughts: This raises the importance of thorough research and insight into local cultures before leveraging them for tourism purposes.
    • Additional Info: Stakeholders should engage with community members and cultural experts to understand possible repercussions of tourism initiatives.

  3. Importance of Understanding Popularity Attributes

    • Failing to grasp the attributes that contribute to the popularity of cultural attractions can lead to significant outcomes.
    • Thoughts: Understanding what makes certain attractions appealing can guide marketing strategies and preserve the integrity of the attraction.
    • Additional Info: Popularity can stem from various factors, including accessibility, uniqueness, and relevance to current societal trends, which should be considered in planning.

  4. Research Focus on Hong Kong

    • The paper examines the attributes of popular cultural attractions specifically in Hong Kong.
    • Thoughts: This localized focus can provide insight into how cultural heritage can be successfully marketed in urban settings.
    • Additional Info: Hong Kong's unique blend of Eastern and Western influences offers a rich context for studying the relationship between culture and tourism.

Reference:

www.sciencedirect.com
ATTRIBUTES OF POPULAR CULTURAL ATTRACTIONS IN HONG ...
www.researchgate.net
(PDF) Tourism Impacts on the Quality of Life in Hong Kong
www.sciencedirect.com
Categorisation of cultural tourism attractions by tourist preference ...

Transitions in Academic Writing

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Importance of Transitions

  • Purpose: Transitions help readers follow the structure of your writing. They act as signposts that guide readers through your arguments.
  • Dividing Paper: Organizing your paper into sections with clear headings and sub-section headings can significantly enhance readability.

Key Points

  • Structure: Clear transitions indicate how different sections of your paper relate to each other.
  • Examples: Including phrases like “Having discussed the positive impacts of tourism, the negative impacts should also be considered” illustrates how to connect sections effectively.

Types of Transitions

Transition PurposeExample Phrase
Introducing a new topic"With respect to _____, . . ."
Continuing a previous topic"As discussed above, . . ."
Moving to another topic (addition)"In addition, . . .", "Another . . ."
Moving to another topic (contrast)"On the other hand, . . .", "In contrast to . . ."
Introducing a section"The section below describes . . ."
Concluding/summarizing a section"In summary, . . .", "This section has shown that . . ."
Previewing the next section"The next section will . . ."

Additional Notes

  • Clarity: Using transitions not only helps in maintaining clarity but also encourages readers to engage with the text.
  • Variety: Employing a variety of transition phrases can keep the writing dynamic and prevent it from becoming monotonous.
  • Consistency: Aim for a consistent tone and style in transitions to maintain a cohesive narrative flow throughout your paper.

Reference:

writingcenter.unc.edu
Transitions - UNC Writing Center
owl.purdue.edu
Writing Transitions - Purdue OWL
www.enago.com
Transition Words - Definition, Types and Examples - Enago

Notes on Signalling Transitions in Writing

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Overview of Signalling Transitions

  • Purpose: This section discusses the importance of signalling transitions in academic writing. Transitions help guide the reader through the structure of the text, ensuring clarity and coherence.

Key Areas Covered:

  1. Giving Examples

    • Examples clarify concepts and provide evidence. Including examples strengthens arguments and helps in comprehension.

  2. Signalling Transition

    • Transition words and phrases link ideas and sections. They serve as cues for readers to understand the flow of the argument.
    • Important to maintain logical flow, enhancing the readability of the text.

  3. Writing About the Past

    • Discusses strategies for referencing previous studies or historical context in writing. This is essential in establishing a foundation for current arguments or discussions.

Transition Strategies

Introducing a New Topic

  • Starting X: Introduces a new concept or subject matter.
  • In regards to X: When discussing related topics, this phrase denotes a shift or expansion in the discussion.

Reinforcing a Topic

  • As far as X is concerned: Often used to emphasize the relevance of a topic in the broader context.

Moving from One Section to the Next

  • Transition Phrases: Such as “Moving from one section to another,” indicate a shift in focus or detail, crucial for maintaining reader engagement.

Summarising a Section

  • Revisiting Key Points: This involves restating essential arguments or findings to reinforce understanding before moving on to new information.

Extracted Table from the Image

TopicPurpose
Giving ExamplesClarifies and strengthens arguments through evidence
Signalling TransitionGuides readers through text structure for clarity
Writing About the PastEstablishes historical context for current discussions
Introducing a New TopicIntroduces new concepts, ensuring relevance
Reinforcing a TopicEmphasizes importance in the broader context
Moving SectionsIndicates shifts in focus to maintain reader engagement
Summarising a SectionRestates key points to enhance understanding before new details

Conclusion

Understanding and utilizing signalling transitions is essential for effective academic writing. By incorporating these strategies, writers can create clearer, more engaging texts that effectively communicate their ideas.

Reference:

www.student.unsw.edu.au
Guide to Transition Signals in Writing | UNSW Current Students
writingcenter.unc.edu
Transitions - UNC Writing Center
www.uts.edu.au
Transition signals | University of Technology Sydney

Academic Phrasebank: Signalling Transition

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General Language Functions

The Academic Phrasebank is a resource that aids in the writing of academic papers by providing phrases for various language functions. Below are key functions noted from the image.

Language FunctionDescription
Being cautiousIn academic writing, it is important to express caution in claims to avoid overgeneralizations.
Being criticalCritical language helps to evaluate and analyze sources or arguments effectively.
Classifying and listingUseful for organizing thoughts, arguments, or data into clear categories.
Compare and contrastA technique that highlights differences and similarities between two or more subjects or ideas.
Defining termsEssential for clarifying key concepts to ensure all readers understand the discussion accurately.
Describing trendsHelpful for summarizing changes or developments in research or data over time.
Describing quantitiesImportant for precisely presenting numerical findings, which assists in conveying research results.
Explaining causalityHelps establish connections between cause and effect in research findings.
Giving examplesIllustrating points with examples strengthens arguments and aids understanding.
Signalling transitionGuides readers through the text by indicating shifts in topics or sections.
Writing about the pastUseful for contextualizing research within historical frameworks or prior studies.

Signalling Transition

  • Purpose: Signalling transition allows the writer to guide the reader through the structure of the paper. This is akin to providing a roadmap, helping readers understand where the paper is headed and how different sections connect.

  • Examples of Transition Statements:

    • The section below describes …
    • What follows is an account of …
    • In the following pages, I will present …
    • The following is a brief description of …
    • The problem of X is discussed in the following section.
    • The structure and functions of X will be explained in the following section.
    • The following part of this paper moves on to describe in greater detail the …

These phrases help ensure clarity and comprehension throughout the paper, making complex ideas more accessible to the reader.

Reference:

www.phrasebank.manchester.ac.uk
Signalling transition - Academic Phrasebank
graduate.indianapolis.iu.edu
[PDF] Academic-Phrasebank.pdf
www.phrasebank.manchester.ac.uk
Giving examples - Academic Phrasebank

Additional Resources: PolyU’s English Language Centre (ELC)

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English In the Workplace for SHTM Students

  • Link: English In the Workplace
    • This resource likely provides guidance on using English effectively in a professional setting, catering specifically to students of the School of Hotel and Tourism Management (SHTM).

Key Areas Covered

  • CVs & Job Application Letters
    • Crafting a compelling CV and cover letter is crucial for job applications. Students should focus on presenting their skills and experiences clearly and concisely to attract potential employers.
  • Writing Workplace Correspondence
    • Communication in the workplace is often different from academic writing. This resource may offer tips on how to maintain professionalism and clarity in emails and other forms of correspondence.
  • Writing Workplace Reports
    • Reports are common in professional environments. Understanding the structure and expectations for these documents can enhance students’ employability and professional effectiveness.

Writing Café @ PolyU

  • Link: Writing Café

    • The Writing Café appears to be a space or service that provides support for students looking to improve their writing skills. Collaborating with peers can be beneficial for receiving feedback.

  • Registration Form: Registration Form

    • Students interested in joining the Writing Café must fill out a registration form, emphasizing the need for organized participation in workshops or sessions.

Tips to Improve Academic Writing

  • Edit and Revise Your Own Work

    • Self-review allows writers to catch errors and improve clarity. This can help develop a critical eye for one’s writing.

  • Shorten. Be Concise.

    • Conciseness is key in academic writing. Reducing wordiness makes arguments stronger and easier for readers to follow.

  • Find a Writing Partner and Proofread Each Other’s Work

    • Collaborating with peers not only helps in catching mistakes but also provides diverse perspectives on the clarity and effectiveness of writing. It’s a great way to foster a supportive learning environment.

Reference:

www.polyu.edu.hk
Writing Café@PolyU | English Language Centre
elc.polyu.edu.hk
Improving Your Academic Writing - Home | English Language Centre
m.facebook.com
Sign up with the ELC's Writing Café to discuss your ... - Facebook

Email Etiquette

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Beginning of the Email

  • Address the recipient in a professional manner:

    • Examples include:
      • Dear Professor <last name>:
      • Dear Dr. <last name>:
      • Dear Mr. <last name>:
      • Dear Sir or Madam:
    • Thoughts: Starting an email with a proper greeting sets a respectful tone. Using titles shows recognition of the recipient’s credentials or position, which is essential in professional communication.

  • It is always better to be more polite.

    • Ideas: Politeness opens doors for better communication and can positively influence the recipient's response. It demonstrates professionalism and consideration.

  • Identify yourself and introduce yourself.

    • Additional Information: Including your name and context (e.g., how you know the recipient or your role) is crucial, especially if you are emailing someone for the first time. It provides clarity and context to avoid misunderstandings.

  • Resist emojis in email.

    • Thoughts: Emojis may be seen as unprofessional in formal emails. Keeping communication straightforward helps maintain a serious tone, especially in business or academic correspondences.

  • Use 'I' sparingly.

    • Ideas: While it's important to express oneself, overusing "I" can make an email sound self-centered. It's best to focus on the recipient and the topic at hand.

  • Check for grammar and spelling errors.

    • Additional Information: Errors can undermine credibility. Taking a moment to proofread enhances professionalism and shows attention to detail.

  • Triple-check your recipient’s name before sending out the email.

    • Thoughts: Mistakes in addressing someone can lead to embarrassment and appear disrespectful. Taking time to ensure accuracy reflects your commitment to effective communication.

End of the Email

  • Proper email sign-offs:

    • Thank you.
    • Have a wonderful day / weekend.
    • Regards, Best, Best regards, Cheers, [your name].
    • Ideas: Sign-offs create closure and leave a positive impression. Tailoring the sign-off to the relationship with the recipient can add a personal touch.

  • Proper email signature:

    • Name, job title, organization.
    • LinkedIn URL and/or company website, email address, phone number.
    • Additional Information: A professional signature not only provides contact information but also establishes credibility and allows easy access to your professional profile.

Email Communication Guidelines

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  • Clean, descriptive subject line:

    • Use a clear and meaningful subject line to give the recipient an immediate understanding of the email's content. For instance, including the subject name and code, like "HTM5002 - Introductory Workshop," helps in quickly identifying the context.
    • This practice can facilitate better organization and retrieval of emails later on.

  • State the purpose of the email at the beginning:

    • Clearly articulate what the email is about right at the start. This could be an inquiry, a request for information, or clarification about an assignment.
    • Following this with a few brief explanations helps set the stage for the rest of the message, ensuring clarity.

  • Keep the message concise and clear:

    • Using short paragraphs and bullet points can greatly enhance readability. This approach makes it easier for recipients to digest information quickly.
    • Being concise also respects the recipient's time and encourages a quicker response.

  • Highlight keywords / time & date / main question / action for the recipient:

    • Emphasizing critical pieces of information helps ensure that the recipient can quickly grasp important deadlines and questions that require action.
    • This strategy aids in creating a focused communication flow, avoiding any potential misunderstandings.

  • Reminder:

    • Important to note that emails differ from instant messaging. Emails often require a more structured approach due to their nature and formality.
    • Remember that emails can be forwarded to others, so consider privacy and the appropriateness of the content for wider circulation.

Reference:

www.compu-mail.com
10 Best Practices for Mastering Email Communication - Compu-Mail
writingcenter.unc.edu
Effective Email Communication - UNC Writing Center
timetoreply.com
The Power of Email: Unleashing Effective Communication Skills

Academic Writing Notes

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What is Academic Writing?

  • Definition: Academic writing is a formal style of writing used in universities and scholarly publications.
    • Thoughts: This emphasizes clarity and professionalism, important for conveying research findings and arguments.
  • Characteristics:
    • Concise, focused, and well-structured: Crucial for academic purposes, ensuring that ideas are presented clearly and logically.
    • Application: Relevant for MSc written assignments, reports, proposals, and thesis writing.
      • Ideas: Good structure helps in maintaining flow and guiding the reader through complex arguments.

Points to Note in Academic Writing:

  • Basic Format:

    • Explanation: Understanding the structure of papers (introduction, body, conclusion) is essential for coherence.

  • Punctuation, Spelling, and Grammar:

    • Importance: Adhering to grammatical rules and proper punctuation is vital for credibility. Errors can detract from the writer's authority.

  • Language Style:

    • Considerations: Academic writing often demands a formal vocabulary, avoiding colloquialisms and casual language.

  • Sentences and Paragraphs:

    • Structure: Each paragraph should focus on a single idea, supporting a larger thesis.

  • Transitions:

    • Purpose: Effective transitions between paragraphs and sections are crucial for maintaining the reader's understanding and engagement. They help to create a seamless flow of ideas.

  • Additional Resources:

    • Academic Phrasebank by The University of Manchester: This tool can provide valuable phrases and guidelines for structuring academic writing.

Summary:

Academic writing is a formal mode of communication essential in academic settings, characterized by its structured approach and focus on clarity. Attention to detail in format, grammar, and transitions is paramount for effective communication of scholarly ideas.

Reference:

libguides.usc.edu
Academic Writing Style - Organizing Your Social Sciences Research ...
sunyempire.edu
Qualities of Academic Writing | Empire State University
slc.berkeley.edu
Nine Basic Ways to Improve Your Style in Academic Writing

Basic Format of Writing

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  • Divide your writing into paragraphs.

    • Structuring ideas through paragraphs is essential for clarity. Each paragraph should focus on a single idea or a related set of ideas, making it easier for the reader to follow.

  • Avoid paragraphs that are too long or too short.

    • Ideal length of paragraphs: 150-250 words.
      • Paragaphs that are too dense can overwhelm the reader, while very short paragraphs can disrupt the flow. Finding a balance is key to maintaining engagement.
    • Exception: The introduction or concluding paragraph of a section can sometimes be shorter.
      • These paragraphs often serve a specific purpose and may not require the same length as the body paragraphs.

  • Each paragraph should be indented.

    • Indentation: Five typed spaces or about half an inch.
      • Indentation visually distinguishes paragraphs from one another, aiding readability.
    • Exception: It is acceptable if the first paragraph after a title or section heading is not indented.
      • This convention can help signal a new section, making it clear to the reader that the content is transitioning.

  • Don’t need to put a blank line between paragraphs.

    • Blank line usage: Put a blank line between different sections of a paper.
      • Using a blank line between sections helps visually separate distinct topics, enhancing organization. However, consistent formatting within paragraphs can create a cleaner look.

Reference:

www.reddit.com
History of Paragraph Formatting Trends - Indent vs Blank Line - Reddit
www.reddit.com
Is paragraph indentation a must while writing in a formal situation
www.reddit.com
Should I indent single-line paragraphs? : r/typography - Reddit

Punctuation, Spelling, and Grammar

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Punctuation

  • CJK (Chinese Japanese Korean) Punctuation Marks:

    • These punctuation marks are fullwidth (e.g., ．，：；「」？).
    • Note: In CJK writing systems, punctuation is often integrated differently than in English, reflecting variations in spacing and style.

  • English Punctuation Marks:

    • English punctuation marks are halfwidth (e.g., ., ;, :, (, ), ").
    • Space Requirement:
      • There should be a space after each punctuation mark.
      • Exception: In citations (e.g., Smith, 2024) or specific phrases ("Hello, Hong Kong?"), the format may change based on style guidelines.

Thoughts:

Understanding the differences between CJK and English punctuation is critical for language learners and professionals working in bilingual environments. Proper spacing can significantly affect clarity in written communication.

Spelling and Grammar

  • Check for Errors:

    • It is essential to proofread documents for both spelling and grammatical mistakes to enhance readability and professionalism.

  • Grammarly Tool:

    • Use tools like Grammarly to assist in identifying and correcting errors in writing. Grammarly Link

Additional Information:

Utilizing spelling and grammar-checking tools can help catch errors that manual proofreading might overlook. This is particularly useful in academic and professional settings where precision is key.

Summary:

This presentation emphasizes the importance of recognizing the differences in punctuation usage between languages and highlights the necessity for careful proofreading in written communication.

Reference:

www.grammarly.com
Free Online Grammar Checker
www.grammarly.com
Punctuation
www.grammarly.com
Grammarly Free

Language Style Guidelines

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Avoid Contractions

  • Example: "can't" becomes "cannot"; "don't" becomes "do not".
  • Thoughts: Using full forms enhances clarity and maintains a formal tone, which is essential in academic or professional writing.

Use Formal Language

  • Advice: Avoid slangs or informal expressions.
  • Example: Change "The new product was a hit" to "The new product was well-received by customers."
  • Thoughts: Formal language lends credibility and professionalism to the writing. It is particularly important in scientific and business contexts where precision is key.

Be Objective

  • Guideline: Utilize 3rd-person perspective instead of personal pronouns like "I," "we," or "us".
  • Examples:
    • "This study examined..."
    • "The researchers conducted..."
    • "It can be argued that..."
  • Thoughts: Objectivity in writing helps to remove personal bias and presents information in a more universally accepted manner, which is vital in research and academic contexts.

Avoid Strong Opinions

  • Advice: Refrain from expressing strong opinions directly or using exaggerated language.
  • Example: Change "Tourism is the most important industry in the world!" to "Tourism is an important pillar of the economy in many countries."
  • Thoughts: This approach promotes a balanced view, encouraging the reader to consider multiple perspectives without feeling pressured by emotional language.

Additional Consideration

  • These guidelines are especially relevant in contexts like research papers, presentations, and formal reports where the aim is to inform rather than persuade. The use of formal language, objectivity, and careful expression of opinions not only supports academic integrity but also enhances the readability and professionalism of the work.

Reference:

students.unimelb.edu.au
Academic style - The University of Melbourne
www.investmentwriting.com
Contractions: Use or avoid in formal writing?
libguides.usc.edu
Academic Writing Style - Organizing Your Social Sciences Research ...

Language Style Guidelines

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Lean Towards Caution

  • Make Your Claims Tentative Rather Than Definite:

    • Using cautious language is crucial in academic writing. Words and phrases like "may," "might," and "possibly" help avoid over-generalizations or strong assertions that cannot be supported by evidence. This approach aligns with the concept of maintaining academic integrity and encouraging critical thinking.

  • Older Adults and Technology:

    • Original statement: "Older adults cannot use technology."
    • Revised suggestion: "Some older adults might be less familiar with self-check in kiosks."
    • This revision highlights the variation in technological proficiency among older adults without stereotyping or making absolute statements.

Clear & Concise

  • Avoid Complicated Vocabulary:

    • Using simple and clear language ensures that the message is accessible to a wider audience. Overly complex vocabulary can alienate readers and obscure the intended meaning.

  • Make Every Word Count:

    • Original example: "A scholar named Sigmund Freud wrote a significant piece of work in 1914, entitled On Narcissism, which offers valuable insights into ..."
    • Revised suggestion: "Freud (1914) offers valuable insights into ..."
    • This revision illustrates the importance of brevity and clarity, emphasizing the significance of being concise in academic writing.

Avoid Redundancy

  • Avoid Repetition:

    • Using phrases like "In other words," and "that is," can lead to redundancy. Instead, strive for a more seamless integration of ideas without unnecessary repetition or filler phrases.

  • Avoid Synonyms and Redundant Words:

    • This reminder emphasizes the importance of precision in language. Using varied but far-reaching synonyms can dilute the main argument or point, so it's crucial to choose words that convey the intended meaning effectively.

By adhering to these guidelines, writers can enhance the clarity and professionalism of their academic writing, making their arguments more compelling and easier to understand.

Reference:

libguides.usc.edu
Academic Writing Style - Organizing Your Social Sciences Research ...
lpsonline.sas.upenn.edu
The difference between academic and professional writing
edis.ifas.ufl.edu
Guidelines for Effective Professional and Academic Writing - Ask IFAS

Sentences and Paragraphs

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Key Points Before Writing

  • Think and Plan

    • It is crucial to have a clear idea of what you want to express in your writing before starting.
    • This can prevent writer's block and ensures structured communication.

  • Outline Key Points

    • Creating an outline helps organize thoughts and highlights the main points.
    • One idea per sentence and one main point per paragraph encourages clarity.

Definition of a Sentence

  • Sentence Structure
    • A sentence is defined as a group of words starting with a capital letter and concluding with a full stop.
    • This basic structure is essential for coherent writing.

Avoiding Run-On Sentences

  • Clarity in Research Statements
    • Example of a run-on sentence: "The results of the study were inconclusive..."
    • This can be rewritten for clarity as:
      • "The results of the study were inconclusive. More research needs to be done on the topic."
    • Maintaining clear, separate statements improves comprehension.

Importance of Shorter Sentences

  • Simplicity Over Complexity
    • Short, clear sentences are preferable to long, convoluted ones. They aid readability and comprehension.
    • For example:
      • Original: "Constant discontinuity, complexity, and competitiveness are features of today’s business world..."
      • Suggestion: Break down into simpler statements for better understanding.

Digital Disruption Context

  • Impact on Organizations
    • Digital disruption presents both opportunities and threats to organizations.
    • Leaders need to be aware of these factors to navigate challenges and leverage opportunities effectively.

Summary

Understanding sentence structure, clarity in communication, and the importance of short sentences can significantly enhance writing quality, especially in academic contexts. Outlining and revising statements can lead to clearer and more impactful writing.

Reference:

academicguides.waldenu.edu
Run-On Sentences and Sentence Fragments - Grammar
www.quora.com
What is a run-on sentence, and how can you avoid writing one?
www.quora.com
Why do people use run-on sentences? - Quora