Writing an essay can be quite a task! Be it an application essay or an assignment, there are multiple elements that separate a good essay from a great one. And language happens to be one such contributing element. Using appropriate language while writing an essay can help you communicate your ideas more effectively and thus convince readers of your point of view.
Tips for Using Suitable Language in an Essay
To make sure that your language is appropriate while writing an essay, you should:
1. Use Clear, Concise Language
Any piece of writing can be made clear and concise by eliminating grammatical errors and avoiding complex sentences. In case there are complex sentences in your essay, use appropriate punctuation to separate their different parts and improve readability. Using active voice instead of passive voice too can contribute to crafting better essays.
2. Avoid Jargon
Although jargon usage is often inevitable in academic writing, it is better to avoid unnecessary jargon while writing essays. Using complex language tends to confuse the reader and can make your essay difficult to understand. The reader may, for instance, misunderstand the context in which your essay is written. Using simple and plain language instead will allow the reader to grasp the content and context of your essay, making it easy to follow.
3. Read up about Homophones
Homophones are words that have the same pronunciation but different meaning and spelling. And without a good understanding of such words, you may end up confusing one word with another while writing. For example, you might use “your” while intending to use “you’re,” which can lead to grammatical errors in your essays. Therefore, it is necessary to pay attention while using homophones and crosscheck to see if you are using the right word.
4. Steer Clear of Direct Translation
If English isn’t your native language, then you must be all-too-familiar with the urge to use a quote or an idiom from your native language while writing an essay in English. While it is okay to use English quotes and idioms in essays, it is never a good idea to directly translate a quote or an idiom from your native language to English and use it in your essay. Since it is possible to get the translation wrong or incorrectly convey the context while translating, you’d be better off not using directly translated text.
5. Understand the Different Levels of Formality
While most academic writing is formal in nature, students are sometimes allowed to use semi-formal or informal language while writing an essay. It is sometimes okay to use a little humor in your writing. However, you should refrain from using informal language and know how much informality is too much. It is better to check with your professor and the writing guidelines before you begin your essay to avoid having to rewrite it in a more formal tone.
6. Avoid Slang and Idioms
As stated before, it is best to use formal or semi-formal language while writing an academic essay. Since slang and idioms are considered informal language, they are best avoided altogether. Besides, they can confuse non-native English readers, making essays difficult to understand. Also, since the relationship between a professor and a student is mostly formal, it makes little sense to use informal language while writing an essay.
7. Use Positive Language
Consider this example to understand the importance of using positive language in your essays. If you’re asked to write a persuasive essay, then you should know how to use language that persuades the reader to see your point. Using biased language, expressing too much skepticism, or adopting an excessively negative stance instead can make the reader uncomfortable and put them off. Therefore, it is important to use positive language that is free of negative stereotypes and biases while writing your essay.
8. Employ a Descriptive Writing Style
Writing experts believe that the “show, don’t tell” writing technique is highly effective when it comes to any type of writing. Using descriptive language can make your writing interesting and hook your readers. Besides, sensory details can help a reader understand a setup or a situation better. For instance, instead of saying: “I was scared when I saw something move in my basement,” it is better to say “A chill ran down my spine when a shadowy presence in my basement suddenly caught my attention.”
Besides these, a few other things you can do to write a great essay are:
- Avoid clichés.
- Use appropriate verbs.
- Avoid generalizations.
- Make sure that the transition from one paragraph to the next is smooth. The sentence at the end of a paragraph and the sentence at the beginning of the next should be written in a way that the transition isn’t too abrupt. Transition words and phrases prove to be particularly useful for this.
- Keep in mind that your argument should be logical and use appropriate evidence wherever necessary. Also, don’t forget to cite your sources.
- Pay attention to the structure of your essay. Depending on the type of essay you are writing, the structure of your essay will vary. However, every essay should have a proper beginning, middle, and end.
Remember to check the essay guidelines before you begin writing your essay. If your professor expects you to follow a style guide or manual, make sure to thoroughly go through the writing rules mentioned in it. Also, get your essay read by a peer, senior, or family member and ask for their feedback or suggestions.
Pay attention to language and grammar and always edit your essay before submitting.
