How To Select The Proper Writing Style For Your Essay

Mike Deep • March 12, 2015

Sometimes the hardest part of writing an essay is nailing down the tone you want to use. You know the point you want to make, you have your outline and research notes, and you know how to string all of your information together. But the actual words pose a challenge.

What Writing Style Best Conveys The Information You’re Trying To Impart?

Consider the following before you write your essay.

1. What Type Of Essay Is It?

Different essays are structured with different tones. Narrative essays tell stories, while persuasive essays call for action. Process essays give step-by-step instructions, while definition essays explain an object or concept. Each type of essay has a different purpose, and each purpose can be conveyed by changing the structure of your language, so the different writing styles.

2. How Formal Is The Essay?

A research essay will likely use academic prose, and the writing style should be chosen with the intent to educate. A narrative essay may have more leeway for voice, and writing style can be chosen to entertain. Process essays are written to instruct and clarify. The formality of each depends on the point you’re trying to make.

Sometimes the hardest part of writing an essay is nailing down the tone you want to use. You know the point you want to make, you have your outline and research notes, and you know how to string all of your information together. But the actual words pose a challenge.

3. Who Is The Audience?

You’re writing this essay to be read. Who will be reading it? A group of your peers may become easily bored by an academic writing style, while that exact same writing style may interest your professor. A group of scholars may be unimpressed by the simplistic language and calls to action that would draw in a neutral group. Understand who your paper is intended for, and write with the intention of reaching that audience.

4. How Many Sources Are You Using?

Less than twenty percent of your paper should be direct quotes, and any direct quotes from your sources should be properly cited. How much paraphrasing have you done? It’s important to be sure that your essay is your own, rather than an amalgamation of many other writers’ points of view. Critically analyze your sources and draw your own conclusions.

The writing style of your essay shouldn’t be daunting when you consider your intended audience and paper’s purpose. Write a draft down on paper and, if you’re still uncertain about your voice, ask your professor or classmates for feedback.

You may also want to check some tips on writing style selection here.