Where is formal writing required

Nonstandard English uses regional or social language variations. Nonstandard English should only be used when there is a purpose for it in writing. For example, it can be used in a narrative to describe a person with a specific regional dialect. Otherwise, the standard form of English should be used. Vocabulary needs to be adjusted depending on the level of formality of any written work.

Consider the following words: investigate, examine, check out. Each of them has a different level of formality. While check out can be used in informal writing and speech, using it in a formal research paper would not be appropriate. Contractions are more casual, and if you are striving for more formal style, they should not be used.

Contractions in negative sentences should be especially avoided since they are easy to miss. Formal language tends to be impersonal and precise. The use of pronouns , therefore, is restricted. In formal writing, when addressing the audience, you may use the passive voice or an adverbial clause in place of the personal pronoun:. The writer's presence, signaled by the use of the personal pronoun I , or we if there are several authors , can also make writing more informal and less credible. Take Quiz.

Toggle Main Navigation Main Navigation. Topics Grammar Punctuation Organization Style. Write the month as a word. Salutation or greeting:. It is always advisable to try to find out a name. If you are writing to a woman and do not know if she uses Mrs or Miss, you can use Ms, which is for married and single women. Ending a letter :. How to Apply. Prepare for University. Foundation Courses. First Courses Prep. The American Education System.

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Formal vs. Informal: Best Writing Practices 75 votes. Blog » Tips for Online Students » Formal vs. Informal: Best Writing Practices. Defining Formal vs Informal Writing Styles Formal Formal writing is written for an audience you do not know on a personal level. Informal Informal writing consists of short sentences and is used in more personal settings, such as writing a letter to a friend or writing a diary entry.

Use Formal Writing When: Writing professionally reaching out to a client or prospect Academic writings essays, research papers, etc. Key Features of Formal vs. This shows the author as coming from a place of understanding their situation. Formal vs Informal Writing Comparison Guide Additional Considerations There are a few more things to take into account when starting out on any writing endeavor.

You want to write to your audience, so you have to define them. However, knowing the level of formality will help you write accordingly.