Language and style
Don’t feel under pressure to use complex language or multi-part sentences: strong academic writing is all about using objective language to create a logical and structured argument. Writing for university comes with a set of expectations to follow, but there is also plenty of space to bring your opinions and unique perspective on a topic into your essays. Here are the key conventions to follow when writing to help ensure your ideas are communicated as clearly as possible:
1. Write out contractions in full
Replace shortened or contracted words such as "won't" and "haven't" with their full versions: will not and have not.
2. Be precise
General or non-specific phrases like "some researchers" or "many people" can feel vague to a reader.
- Vague Language: "Many people believe that climate change is a serious issue."
- Improved: "According to a 2023 Pew Research Centre survey, 72% of respondents across 20 countries believe that climate change poses a significant threat."
- Vague Language: "Some researchers suggest that this method is effective."
- Improved: "Researchers such as Dwesar (2020) and Cunningham (2021) have found that cognitive-behavioural therapy is effective in treating anxiety disorders, with success rates exceeding 70% in clinical trials."
3. Avoid repetition
When describing sources, vary your language to show what papers contribute to your essay:
- Repetition: "While Santiago (2007) argues that genetics are crucial in personality development, Tang (2011) argues that environmental influences are just as crucial."
- Improved: "While Santiago (2007) underlines the importance of genetics in personality development, Tang (2011) contends that environmental influences are just as crucial."
