Elements of Nonfiction

This list is not complete, but here are  elements I consider as I read and evaluate a nonfiction manuscript.

Clarity: Is the writing clear?

Concision: Do all elements move the work forward? Is the scope too broad or too narrow? Have you slashed out the weeds? Includes looking at: superfluous words; repetition; unconfident, qualifying words or statements; tangents or digressions; excess modifiers; idle, non-working words.

Unity: Are all elements at the paragraph, section, chapter, and book level centered on the primary topic? Includes: subject, scope, tone, style, point of view, tense.

Coherence: Is the work well organized and tightly connected? Are the various elements presented in a logical order? Are all references unambiguous? Are the relationships between sentences, paragraphs, sections, chapters, and ideas clear? Are all transitions smooth and patterns clear?

Emphasis: Is the relative importance of thoughts, ideas, and issues that bear on the subject of your writing conveyed? Includes looking at: proportion, position, repetition, diction, length, word order, pauses, humor, typography/images, layout.

Significance: Does the work address the needs of the reader? Does it make a point? Does it provide useful information? Is it persuasive, enlightening, or surprising?

Style: Does the work have an authentic and  appropriate voice? Is it free of surface errors? Is the writing smooth and engaging? Includes looking at: diction, grammar & punctuation, active & accurate verbs, strong nouns, concrete and figurative language, rhythm and sound, variable sentence lengths and forms, avoiding clichés.