Final answer:
Always provide a clear antecedent for 'this' in your writing to avoid leaving your readers questioning what 'this' refers to.
Step-by-step explanation:
When writing, it's important to use the word 'this' clearly and effectively, especially when referencing objects or ideas previously mentioned. One crucial rule is to always provide a clear antecedent for 'this' to avoid confusion. For instance, instead of saying 'This can be confusing to the reader', which leaves the reader asking 'This what?', it's more precise to say 'This lack of explanation can be confusing to the reader'. By adding a noun after 'this', you clarify the subject, thus improving the readability and quality of your written work. It is helpful to use the 'find' function in your word processing software to search for instances of 'this' in your document, ensuring that each one is accompanied by a defining noun or phrase.