Avoid vague pronouns

Pronouns replace or refer to a specific noun. Make sure that your pronouns aren't vague or ambiguous.

Examples:

• When the truck stopped next to the car, it was slightly further ahead than the other vehicle (does "it" refer to the truck or the car?)
• The dog chased the cat until it hid under the couch (does "it" refer to the dog or the cat?)
• My birthday is next week, which is exciting (what is exciting, your birthday or that it is next week?).

For more information, please see "Vague Pronouns" (YouTube video), and please contact the Writing Centre if you have any questions about this tip or any other writing-related matter.