Style in Writing
Strengthening your message through fluidity, tone, and conciseness.
What is Style?
Style is the fluidity of your word choice and the tone you use when addressing your audience. While academic writing often feels "intellectual," your main goal is to be understood. Often, the most effective style is concise and uses broadly accessible language.
Combatting Wordiness
Wordiness happens when we use more words than needed. This obscures your message and tires the reader. Replace Stock Phrases (series of words that act as a single unit) with direct language.
Developing Voice
Active vs. Passive Voice
Passive voice happens when the object of an action becomes the subject. It can make sentences feel "heavy."
Passive: The ball was kicked by Jacob.
Active: Jacob kicked the ball.
Strong Verbs
Weak or vague "to be" verbs lack emotional direction. Choose verbs that carry their own weight.
Weak: Rosie went to the store.
Strong: Rosie sprinted to the store. (Adds urgency)
Writing Center Focus Areas
When you visit the Writing Center, you can choose to focus on Global or Local concerns.
Global Concerns
The "Big Picture" of your project:
- Development of ideas
- Audience consideration
- Transitions & Flow
- Order and connection
Local Concerns
The "Fine Tuning" of your project:
- Sentence variety
- Comma splices & Punctuation
- Prepositions & Modifiers
- Clichés and slang