文档介绍：NAVAL WAR COLLEGE
Writing Guide
August 2000
August 2000
. Naval War College
Writing Guide
Introduction
"The man who cannot say what he has to As he frequently did, Winston Churchill found
say in good English cannot have very an eloquent way to describe a problem. By
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much to say that is worth listening to."1 extension, Churchill was not referring only to
munication, but also to written English.
The context of Churchill's assertion conveys to the reader just how rich the language can be, for
in this case the bland adjective "good" carries a powerful message. Like much excellent advice,
however his message often goes unheeded.
At the Naval War College all students will be required to produce written documents.
Each of the core curricula and elective courses key on written products as a major part of their
evaluation of student efforts. Some emphasize original thought and focus less on documentation
of sources; others require more formal academic presentation. But all demand thoughtful,
complete, analytical written works.
Writing marks the culmination of the educational process. Good writing facilitates the
expression of powerful thoughts. The true depth and breadth of learning cannot be revealed
unless one can write well. Unquestionably, constructing a cogent, relevant, and persuasive essay
stands as the touchstone of academic achievement and excellence.
A variety of disciplines contribute to the quality of writing--logic, research, grammar, and
organizational skills, for instance. Proficiency in es more naturally to some people
than to others. Nevertheless, since it is a psychomotor skill, writing can be expected to improve
with attention and practice.
Many graduate level students do not petently, but they remain unaware of their
deficiencies. Writing habits often continue uncorrected for years because writing skills are not
practiced routinely, or because substandard writing fails to receive the