What is the purpose of tone in writing?

• A. To determine the plot structure.
• B. To convey attitude toward the subject and influence readers' responses.
• C. To provide factual information only.
• D. To control the length of the text.

Answer: (B)

Tone in writing expresses the writer’s attitude toward the subject or audience, and that stance shapes how readers interpret and react to the piece. Through word choice, sentence length, rhythm, and imagery, the writer signals whether they’re formal or casual, serious or playful, skeptical or sympathetic. That attitude guides readers’ emotional and interpretive responses, influencing how persuasive or engaging the writing feels.

For example, a formal report uses restrained, objective language to convey reliability, while a personal essay might use a warm, conversational tone to create connection. Tone isn’t about plotting or providing only facts, and it doesn’t control how long the text is; those elements belong to other aspects of writing.