Podcast
Questions and Answers
What is the main concern with using contractions in formal writing?
What is the main concern with using contractions in formal writing?
It is acceptable to use contractions in formal writing when quoting someone.
It is acceptable to use contractions in formal writing when quoting someone.
True
What is the safest approach when it comes to using contractions in formal writing?
What is the safest approach when it comes to using contractions in formal writing?
Avoid them entirely.
In formal writing, it is recommended to use ______________ instead of 'it can't be said that'.
In formal writing, it is recommended to use ______________ instead of 'it can't be said that'.
Signup and view all the answers
Match the following concepts with their descriptions:
Match the following concepts with their descriptions:
Signup and view all the answers
What is the purpose of avoiding slang in academic writing?
What is the purpose of avoiding slang in academic writing?
Signup and view all the answers
Rhetorical questions are not recommended in academic writing.
Rhetorical questions are not recommended in academic writing.
Signup and view all the answers
What is the main concern with using direct address in academic writing?
What is the main concern with using direct address in academic writing?
Signup and view all the answers
In academic writing, it is recommended to use ______________ voice instead of passive voice.
In academic writing, it is recommended to use ______________ voice instead of passive voice.
Signup and view all the answers
What is the benefit of using efficient words in academic writing?
What is the benefit of using efficient words in academic writing?
Signup and view all the answers
Study Notes
Acronyms and Abbreviations
- Write out the full name with acronym in parentheses the first time it appears in the report, and then use the acronym in subsequent occurrences.
- This prevents confusion when one acronym has multiple possible meanings.
- Example: "Geographic Information Systems (GIS) is a rapidly expanding field. GIS technology..."
Capitalization
- The first word in a sentence is normally capitalized.
- Caps are sometimes used for emphasis.
- Capitalize all proper nouns (names of specific people, places, things, countries, nationalities, etc.).
- Example: American, Farouk, Fourier, Venice, Saturday, April.
Voice and Tone
- The active voice is easier to read and understand than the passive voice.
- Choose the active voice in your sentences whenever possible.
- In active voice, the subject of the sentence is the doer of the action.
- Example: "Most books on English writing will tell you not to use the passive voice..."
Contractions
- Contractions are considered informal and conversational expressions.
- Avoid using contractions in formal writing, as they may appear unprofessional.
- Instead, write out the two words separately.
- Example: "It cannot be said that …" instead of "It can’t be said that …"
Additional Considerations
- Avoid using abbreviations in academic writing, with some exceptions.
- Avoid using "e.g." and "i.e.", instead use "for example" and "for instance".
- Avoid using "etc.", instead rewrite the sentence.
- Avoid using "dept", "govt", and "NB", instead use "department", "government", and "note that".
- Use "Figure" instead of "Fig." and "Table" instead of "Tab.".
- Limit the use of "run-on" expressions (e.g., etc.).
Studying That Suits You
Use AI to generate personalized quizzes and flashcards to suit your learning preferences.
Related Documents
Description
A guide to using acronyms in technical writing, including best practices for clarity and readability. Learn how to introduce and use acronyms effectively in your writing.
