What does 'tone' refer to in written communication?

In written communication, tone refers to the writer's attitude towards the subject or audience, which is conveyed through elements like word choice, sentence structure, and overall style. It helps to establish the emotional quality of the writing, influencing how the reader perceives the message. For example, a formal tone might reflect professionalism, while a casual tone could create a friendly atmosphere. This aspect is crucial because the tone can significantly affect the reader’s engagement and understanding of the content.

Other options focus on aspects that do not capture the essence of 'tone' in this context. Length relates to how much content is presented, factual content pertains to the actual information provided, and formatting styles address how the document is visually structured, none of which pertain directly to the writer's attitude as expressed through language.