What is Academic Writing?
CONTENTS
- What is academic writing?
- Characteristics
- Examples
Academic writing is clear, concise, focused, structured and backed up by evidence. Its purpose is to aid the reader’s understanding.
It has a formal tone and style, but it is not complex and does not require the use of long sentences and complicated vocabulary.
Each subject discipline will have certain writing conventions, vocabulary and types of discourse that you will become familiar with over the course of your degree. However, there are some general characteristics of academic writing that are relevant across all disciplines.
Is generally a quite formal, objective (impersonal), and technical.
Characteristics
- Formal
- Objective (Impersonal)
- Technical
Formal
An academic text is formal by avoiding casual or conversational language such as contractions or informal vocabulary. It uses appropriate language and tenses, and is clear, concise and balanced.
Objective
It is impersonal at the same time objective because it avoids direct reference to people or feelings instead it emphasizes objects, facts, and ideas. It well focuses on the idea rather than the people or emotion that being portrayed.
Technical
A text is technical by using vocabulary wordings and references used has a clear focus on the issue. It also includes accurate word choice.
Examples
Academic Texts
- Essays
- Concept Papers
- Reaction Papers
- Position Papers
- Reports (Educational)
- Research Papers
Non-academic Texts
- Resolutions
- Contracts
- Application Papers
- Business Documents
- Oath/Pledges
- Journalistic Articles
- Editorials/Cartoons
- Science Feature
Notes
An academic text should consider…
- Formal Tone (FT)
- Uses Third Person (UTP)
- Clear Focuses on the Topic (CFT)
- Precise Word Choice (PWC)
Source: Academic Text for Professionals
EAPP Daily 