Making Writing More Academic

The language we speak with friends and the language we use in academic/formal writing may be quite different. Being aware of these two different types of language ("register") is a key to strong and sophisticated college writing.

 How do we learn how to make our writing more academic? 

A few easy tips are:

1) Avoid contractions (can't--- cannot)
2) Avoid the informal "YOU" pronoun (use a specific noun to indicate whom you are referring to)
3) Avoid informal expressions, such as "guy," "kid," "really," and "stuff."
4) Avoid starting sentences with FANBOYS such as BUT, AND, SO. Instead, use clear transition words to link ideas (however, thus, therefore, in addition)

For more suggestions, visit these helpful sites:

English Grammar page
University of Surrey (a helpful printable reference page!)
UNC Writing Center (information on word choices)


For practice with this skill, you might try these online activities:

Practice 1
Practice 2 (word choice)
Practice 3 (word choice)
Practice 4 (word choice)


Looking for more? Check out these more advanced articles on how to become a better writer!

Article 1 (Oxford Royale Academy: 13 Ways to Make Your Writing More Interesting to Read)
Article 2 (Austin, K.: 5 Reliable Ways to Make Academic Writing More Interesting)
Article 3 (Mackay, J.: 10 Tips for ESL/EFL Academic Writers)