Sometimes when writers use a pronoun (you, it, that, they, this, etc.) to refer to a noun, the noun becomes vague for any of these reasons:
· The noun is far from the pronoun
Example: Last year’s client conference, where I met our president, was one of the best that I have ever been to. The sessions were informative and the gluten-free food was delicious. He is originally from Texas, but he moved to San Diego two years ago. [JS – A sentence separates the noun from the pronoun.]
· The noun is among other nouns, making it hard to figure out which noun the pronoun refers to
Example: Donna told Kara that Jackie suspected that she ate all the donuts. [JS – Who suspects whom of eating the donuts?]
· The noun is not stated clearly
Example: In the instructions, they said to take the system offline. [JS – It is not clear who “they” refers to.]
When you use pronouns, make sure the reference is clear.
Thank you,
Jackie Solano | Technical Editor | Symitar®
8985 Balboa Ave. | San Diego, CA 92123 | Ph. 619.542.6711 | Extension: 766711
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