Writing Tip #2-- Academic Writing

Academic Writing

Academic writing is a very formal type of writing used in academia. Since you are joining the academic world, you want to be able to write and to communicate in a way that is accepted by those who are involved in academia. It is the same principle as wearing the right clothes when you go out somewhere. You want to fit in. As you progress in your classes, you will become more comfortable with this type of writing.

Some things that may be different to you about academic writing are that it does not use abbreviations, symbols, bold or italicized text for emphasis, exclamation marks, slang, cliches, or informal wording. Also, contractions are not used (don't, didn't, wasn't, and so forth).

It doesn't mean you have to use five syllable words, but it does mean using an objective viewpoint instead of "I" and "you," for example.

I hope this tip helps as you begin your writing journey.