Academic writing … - is more objective - is more complex - has a more formal structure - uses more referencing


C Analysis


What are the key characteristics of academic writing?


It is almost impossible to define good academic writing exactly. However, it is certainly possible to identify some key characteristics. The ones listed on the right are four of the most important features.


academic writing is more objective


Phrases such as I think, I believe and In my opinion should not be used in academic writing. Academics are not looking for what you think or believe – they want to see what you can show, demonstrate and prove through evidence.


Three specific strategies for achieving objectivity (illustrated in more detail in Steps 21–23) are outlined below:


Standard writing: I think there are 4 main areas where I can see big differences between standard writing and academic writing.


Academic writing: Generally speaking1 , there are2 between standard writing and academic writing can be seen3


four main areas where differences …


Strategy 1: hedging language (generally speaking) increases the ‘distance’ between the writer and the text, thereby creating more objectivity.


Strategy 2: Empty introductory phrases (there are) provide a platform for objective statements.


Strategy 3: The paSSive voice (can be seen) removes the need for a subject in the sentence. This can be particularly useful to avoid using I.


academic writing is more complex


As a general principle, academic writing is more complex than other forms of writing. This is because academic writing often discusses difficult, challenging ideas which can only be expressed with particular grammar and language. Areas where this complexity may be seen include:


Formality of language Academic language is more formal than the vocabulary used in other writing.


Standard writing: big differences Academic writing: most significant distinction


Step 2


12


Note Do not mistake ‘complex’


and ‘complicated’. Academic writing should not be complicated. It should be relatively easy to follow, written in a clear, direct style. Therefore, you should not: • use long, difficult words which you do not understand.


• use difficult grammatical structures that you are not confident with.


• make strong statements about issues which you are unable to justify.


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