Chapter 3 (The Informed Writer)

Question 1

What is the primary goal of paraphrasing?

Answer 1

To restate another author’s ideas in your own words with precision and fidelity

Question 2

Why is paraphrasing superior to quoting for integrating ideas?

Answer 2

It allows you to preserve the flow and tone of your argument while engaging another’s thought without ceding control to their voice.

Question 3

What two core techniques are essential in paraphrasing?

Answer 3

1) Substituting context-appropriate synonyms; 2) Restructuring sentence syntax while preserving meaning.

Question 4

What must be avoided when substituting synonyms?

Answer 4

Avoid words that are technically similar but contextually misleading

Question 5

How does sentence restructuring help in paraphrasing?

Answer 5

It reveals the sentence’s core meaning and allows re-emphasis of ideas without distorting their logical relationships.

Question 6

What is the risk of reading with preconceived ideas?

Answer 6

You may project your beliefs onto the text, distort the author’s meaning, and miss essential nuances.

Question 7

When should paraphrasing be used in academic work?

Answer 7

For dense passages, interpreting abstract concepts, simplifying for non-experts, and integrating ideas into essays and legal or philosophical analysis.

Question 8

What distinguishes paraphrase from summary and direct quotation?

Answer 8

Paraphrase restates ideas with precision and fullness, summary condenses, and quotation repeats verbatim.

Question 9

Why must you always cite a paraphrase?

Answer 9

Because the ideas are not your own—even though the wording is.

Question 10

What does a failed paraphrase usually indicate?

Answer 10

A lack of full understanding of the original text