The document discusses good writing and clarity in communication. It notes that the single biggest problem is the illusion that communication has occurred when it has not. It then lists some common reasons for lack of clarity, including pronouns or antecedents that are unclear, an unclear chronology, and ambiguous or esoteric language. The document provides two examples to illustrate unclear writing versus clear translations.

1. Good Writing
Something We Can All Do

2. “The single biggest problem in communication is
the illusion that it has taken place.”
—George Bernard Shaw

3. ...or, I know what I’m trying to
say so you must be getting it!

4. Clarity
How we get confused
One thought does not lead to another
We don’t understand what certain pronouns or
antecedents refer to
Unclear chronology
Ambivalent meaning: the reader may not hear it the
way we intended
Esoteric references