What effect does tone have in a piece of writing?

• A. It helps to structure the narrative
• B. It conveys the author's attitude towards the subject
• C. It dictates character actions
• D. It is irrelevant to the reader's experience

Answer: (B)

The effect of tone in a piece of writing is crucial because it conveys the author's attitude towards the subject matter. Tone encompasses the emotional quality and mood of the writing, which can range from formal to informal, serious to humorous, or optimistic to pessimistic. This aspect helps readers understand how they should feel about the content and the seriousness of the themes being explored.

For example, if an author adopts a sarcastic tone, it may indicate a level of skepticism or criticism regarding the topic, while a nostalgic tone could evoke feelings of warmth or longing. By carefully crafting the tone, authors can influence readers' interpretations and emotional responses, guiding them to understand deeper meanings and connections within the text. The effectiveness of tone is foundational to the overall impact of the writing, making it an integral part of the author's communication with the audience.