A student should choose words that have a formal meaning implication, or connotation, for high diction writing. Writing the word "man" would not be considered high diction, whereas the word "gentleman" exudes a more formal feeling for the reader. The two words have the same literal definition, but evoke different perspectives in the reader's mind regarding the person. A "gentleman" may wear a suit, whereas a "man" may simply have jeans, depending on the reader's viewpoint.
High diction does not require long, confusing sentence structures. In fact, the writing style should be straight to the point. Writers should not use 2 to 3 words for a description of a flower when they could use just one word. Too many words, within one sentence to describe an item, will confuse and bore the reader.
High diction does not require extremely long sentences. In fact, word flow tends to have more impact if the sentences are relatively short. Short sentences create a rhythm to the paragraph, urging the reader forward in the story. In addition, metaphor and simile use, within the sentences and paragraphs, helps the reader understand the cold of a morning or the heat of day.
A writer should look over the sentences to verify if diction shifts occurred. Mixing high diction with low diction, such as profanity, creates an uncomfortable writing voice. The story does not feel natural; the reading tone and rhythm may seem stilted and confusing. Diction should remain the same throughout a writing piece for overall clarity.