Reminder for Formal Writing

Question 1

Should you use contractions?

Answer 1

No

Question 2

Should you use the second person?

Answer 2

No

Question 3

Should you use slang, such as “nowadays”, “etc.”, and “got”?

Answer 3

No

Question 4

How should you communicate numbers below 10?

Answer 4

You should spell them out, unless there are other larger numbers used in the sentence.

Question 5

What do sentences need to start with?

Answer 5

A word. DO NOT start sentences with a numerical.

Question 6

What phrases should you avoid using?

Answer 6

“In my opinion” and “I believe”. These are redundant, as we know you think and believe these things as you are the one asserting them.

Question 7

What is the best format to use for your essay?

Answer 7

Third person; first person is acceptable as long as you are directly mentioned in the prompt (ex. you are a marine biologist asked to give your opinion, etc.)

Question 8

What other types of redundant phrases should you avoid?

Answer 8

Avoid “This is why we should prioritize solving world hunger.” or “In conclusion”

Question 9

Why should you not use the phrase “in conclusion”?

Answer 9

If it’s your final paragraph or the last sentence of a paragraph, we know that this is where you would conclude, and your essay will seem more sophisticated if you can transition to a conclusion without needing to label it with “in conclusion.”