Through every step of the writing process, writers have to make choices—choices in punctuation, mechanics, diction, and syntax as well as in content, structure, and style. Each decision they make determines to some extent their success in reaching their audience. For fifty years has helped writers make wise decisions by identifying clearly and concisely the choices that are available to them and by explaining which choices are most appropriate in a given context. Now in its eighth edition, this widely popular handbook of American English has been brought up to date with new usage entries, revised recommendations that reflect current practice, and illustrative passages drawn from recent publications—books, popular magazines, learned journals, and newspapers. Written in the lively style that has helped it become a standard resource, presents in alphabetical order well over six hundred entries dealing with rhetoric, grammar, style, organization, paragraphing, sentence structure, fallacies in reasoning, punctuation, diction, and usage. Entries on particular words and constructions ( , ) distinguish between formal, general, and informal styles, and entries like "Business letters" offer advice on special kinds of writing. Extensive cross-referencing enables readers to find what they need quickly and easily. A versatile guide to standard written English, the is an essential sourcebook for students of composition and an invaluable desk-reference for all writers.