DIFFERENCE BETWEEN FORMAL AND INFORMAL WRITING
How to determine formal/informal styles of writing?
To define formal/informal style of writing you need to know whom you are catering your content: Know your target audience Publication type
What makes writing formal/informal?
The style of writing, describing information, presentation, and word usage and assembling makes writing formal/informal. For Example: The manner we write academic papers differs from the manner we write to family. The vocabulary, syntax and tone changes completely, thus make manuscript writing formal while writing to family informal.
What makes writing formal/informal? INFORMAL Informal words/expressions can be used while writing (kids, guy, amazing, a lot, etc.)
FORMAL Use of informal words/expressions must be avoided while writing (substitute with children, man/boy, wonderful, many, etc.)
Contractions can be used (can't, shouldn't, won't, etc.)
Contractions must be avoided (write out full words - cannot, should not, will not, etc.)
First, second, or third person can be Should write as third person used. (Exception: In business communication use First person). ClichĂŠ s can be used (loads of, little did I know, etc.) 2nd person pronouns can be used to address people (you, your, etc)
ClichĂŠs use must be avoided (use many, unknowingly, etc.) Second person pronouns should not be used to address the readers (use one, one's, the reader, the reader's, etc.)
What makes writing formal/informal? Can use word abbreviations (photo, TV, etc.)
Avoid abbreviations (use television, photograph, etc.)
Imperative voice may be used (e.g. Remember....)
Imperative voice usage must be avoided (use Please refer to...)
May use active voice (e.g. We have notice that.....)
Use passive voice (e.g. It has been noticed that....)
Simple and short sentences can be used for writing
Longer and more complex sentences are not preferred when writing (short simple sentences reflects poorly on the writer)
Difficulty of subject may be acknowledged and can show empathy to the reader.
State arguments with a firm support and points confidently.
When communicating with friends and Used mainly in academic writing and other close ones business communications
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