Once you start looking, you see vagueness, ambiguity, and generality everywhere. The trick is staying vigilant, and knowing which questions to ask. So, for each of the following statements, give me a score on the sloppy-language scale (1 being totally meaningless and 5 being crystal clear) and a diagnosis: Where does the vagueness come from and what questions could fix it?

1. Scores in Ken’s 341 class are lower than average.

2. Luxury cars have higher resale value.

3. Joe has high blood pressure and a family history of heart disease.

4. My sister knew my mother was upset when she called her.

5. Bet on the Chiefs next week.