Academics use scholarly language to communicate their ideas effectively. A well-written scholarly paper balances conciseness, clarity, and flow. See below for a short video presentation of this handout.
The Sentence
Sentences present one idea in a straightforward way that is clear and to the point.
Sentences flow logically and are linked with transition words when needed. Transition words include: Therefore, However, Similarly, Additionally…
Avoid overusing passive sentences as they are not direct. It is acceptable to use ‘I’ in your sentences; however, avoid writing I think or I believe.
A sentence containing a list should be parallel. This allows the reader to effortlessly absorb the information without slowing down. In a parallel list, each word or phrase has the same structure as the preceding one. For example, Mary likes hiking, swimming, and riding a bicycle.
The Paragraph
A good paragraph has a clear topic sentence. The topic sentence is then followed by the supporting information, which proves/adds details to the topic sentence. The paragraph ends with a concluding or transitioning sentence.
The paragraphs flow logically and clearly relate to your paper’s thesis statement.
The Overall Paper
Each type of writing has its own structure.
An essay starts with an introduction and finishes with a conclusion. The last line of your introduction is your thesis statement. Your thesis statement is your central statement/argument that your whole paper evolves around. It is the most important sentence in your essay.
Other types of academic writing include Annotated Bibliographies, Reports, Proposals, and Literature Reviews. Each type of paper has its own structure, which you must learn and follow.
Tone
As a scholarly writer, you formally present your ideas without showing your feelings about what you are writing about.
To do this avoid emotional words such as, definitely, heartbreaking, terrible, really, clearly, always…
Avoid Slang words for example: a bit, a couple of, thing, stuff, humongous, till…
Avoid Contractions for example: I’d like to visit Paris → I would like to visit Paris.