How it works
A reference should let the reader identify the intended person, object, or idea immediately. Pronouns need a clear antecedent and consistent singular/plural form. When two possible nouns compete, repeat the noun or use a more specific summary phrase. Bare this at the start of a sentence can be vague when it refers to an entire idea; writing this delay, this requirement, or this arrangement often improves clarity. During editing, draw an arrow from each pronoun to its antecedent.
Patterns
Specific summary noun
This + noun + verb…
Name the idea being summarized rather than leaving this unsupported.
Clear antecedent
Specific noun… matching pronoun…
Maintain number and avoid competition from another nearby noun.
Before and after
- Before
- The manager told the volunteer that she would send the form.
- After
- The manager told the volunteer, ‘I will send the form.’
- Why
- Direct wording removes ambiguity about who will send it.
- Before
- The room has no screen. This creates a problem.
- After
- The missing screen creates a problem for remote participation.
- Why
- The summary noun identifies what this meant and why it matters.
Practice
- Draw antecedent arrows in one email.
- Replace five vague this references with summary nouns.
- Rewrite three ambiguous pronoun sentences in two different clear ways.
Show the answer key
- Every pronoun should have one likely antecedent.
- Summary nouns must accurately name the prior idea.
- Repetition is acceptable when it prevents ambiguity.
