1.+Style+&+F0rmality

What is academic style? English used in academic tasks, particularly in written ones, is a little different from our everyday spoken language. Academic style not only looks good but it can also enable you to think more logically, more clearly and more realistically as you work on an assignment. Important points to remember: Avoid over-generalisation Refer to the work of others Limit your claims-be realistic
 * 1. Academic Style

Academic style is not only a matter of particular words or particular grammatical features. It involves how you think, how you reason, and how you interact with what has already been discovered or argued. Aim to deepen your understanding of what it is, how it works – and how you can apply it. 2. Formality Formal Versus Informal Language Different types of writing require different levels of formality. A report, a project, an assignment are generally written in a formal style.

Informal Use of active voice Use of personal pronouns, eg. I, you, we. Verbs that show feelings, eg. I think, we feel, I am pleased

Formal Use of passive voice Few personal pronouns Neutral verbs are used, ie non-emotive verbs Active Versus Passive Voice The active voice is direct and lets the reader know who is doing the action. It focuses on the subject and the action. It is often used in informal communication, e.g. personal letters. The passive voice is used to: Focus on issues/information/processes rather than the subject or doer of the action, and Avoid a personal tone and eliminate the use of personal pronouns, eg I, you and we. Clear and Concise Verbs In reports, it is important that your writing does not sound too casual. The use of clear and concise verbs instead of verb phrases in one way of making your writing more concise as well as more formal. Pronouns The use of personal pronouns makes writing more personal and informal. It is as though you are talking directly to the person yourself which makes the writing informal, eg a personal letter. Impersonal Language Essays and reports should be written in the third person singular. Avoid personal terms as “I” or “we” ; the word “it” should be used instead. ** **

Sourse: eng191 course pack for the departments of commerce, finance and shipping set 1 **