It can be difficult to learn how to write without using personal language.It's difficult to find alternatives to clauses such as "I will argue," but don't worry if you're stuck.There are many ways to make your point without using personal pronouns.Slang and other informal expressions can be used without even realizing it.Replacing casual, subjective words with objective language is a good way to check your work.You can learn the rules of academic writing with a little practice.
Step 1: You can use the third person point of view.
Don't refer to yourself as "I" or "my" in academic writing.If you want to avoid using the second-person point of view, write directly about your subject matter in the third person.A good breakfast is an important part of a healthy diet.
Step 2: Informal expressions should be used instead of objective language.
Slang, colloquialisms, clichés, and contractions are informal expressions.They are common in speech and casual writing, but not appropriate for academic writing."He kicked the bucket in a doozy of a wreck" is a casual expression shared by a region or social group.Clichés such as "only time will tell" or "cream of the crop" have become meaningless or boring, and alternatives could be "remains to be seen" and "the best".Spelling out the words in full is the best way to avoid using contractions.
Step 3: It's possible to be as specific as possible.
Formal writing should be clear and precise.They did a really good job, but the level of difficulty went up over time.Don't use estimates such as a couple of studies, a lot of time, or a bunch of research.
Step 4: Take some time to think of strong words.
If you want your writing to stand out, try to find strong, specific verbs.Your descriptions should relate facts, not express your opinion.You can find the word that best conveys your point by checking a thesaurus or internet search."An expert witness debunked the defense's argument" is stronger than "The witness made an extremely convincing testimony that made the defendant look absolutely guilty."The defense's argument failed because it relied on speculative evidence.
Step 5: Instead of using "I think", state your claim directly.
Dropping a clause from the beginning of a sentence is sometimes all you need.Getting rid of the personal pronoun makes your statement sound more confident.The second example is objective and sounds authoritative.If you are unsure about a claim, you might want to use a personal pronoun.Do your research!It will be easier to make strong, well-supported claims if you know more about your subject matter.Keep an authoritative tone even if the other side presents a strong argument.Personal pronouns could weaken your stance if you use them.
Step 6: Don't refer to your thought process with supporting evidence.
If you are trying to strengthen a claim, you might be tempted to write something like, "I am convinced, I am sure, or I strongly disagree." However, referring to yourself won't make your point stronger.Make your claim more credible by mentioning an authoritative source.According to expert testimony from the manufacturer, the defense's claims regarding a vehicle defect had no basis in reality.
Step 7: Don't use personal pronouns to map out your paper.
You should not use personal pronouns when introducing your paper's structure.Minor adjustments might be needed if you can't just remove the personal reference.I will argue that market volatility led to the industry's collapse.
Step 8: The passive voice can be used to emphasize an action.
The passive voice can be used to describe a procedure or map out an argument.In a scientific paper, "The sample was tested" is better than "I tested the sample." In passive voice, an action was done by someone or something.Passive voice is wordy because of this construction.The doer is emphasized by the active voice: "They did this."You should always write in the active voice.Charles Baudelaire described modernity.
Step 9: Instead of you, use formal generalizations.
It is natural to say, if you break the rules, you will get into trouble.Reword it as "The evidence disproves the claim" or replace it with "You can see that claim is false."It will make your writing feel awkward if you use "one can see" too often.
Step 10: Formal, factual vocabulary is used instead of emotional language.
There are specific, objective word choices and evidence in strong formal writing.Subjective expressions might be correct, but they don't state facts.A reliable source refers to the fact that the efficiency audit determined that streamlining the application process will generate interest.The application process is confusing and terrible.It is acceptable to use more emotional language if you are trying to make an emotional appeal to your audience.
Step 11: Slang can be replaced with specific words and phrases.
It is easy to use informal language without realizing it.Imagine that you are not a native speaker of your language.If you are writing in English, look for words and phrases that are not familiar to you.Slang for example is "That guy was a real hater, so his boss gave him the third- degree."The manager reprimanded the cashier for insubordinate behavior.
Step 12: You should check your writing for everyday language.
Slang can be even harder to avoid than common sayings.The casual vocabulary of everyday speech should not be included in your writing.Stick to formal, precise vocabulary and avoid figures of speech.Common expressions include "easier said than done," "sooner or later," and "reached a happy medium."
Step 13: Don't use too many short, simple, and incomplete sentences.
Use short sentences strategically and keep in mind that your sentences shouldn't run on.Your writing will feel mechanical if every sentence is terse.Your sentences should always be complete and unabbreviated.The performer gave a great performance.Not a dry eye in the theater is not appropriate for academic writing.Short, incomplete sentences are preferred for resume writing.Write, "Reduced purchasing costs by 10%."