Contractions are a ubiquitous feature of the English language, providing a shorthand way to express common phrases. While contractions are generally accepted in informal writing and speech, their use in formal academic writing, such as college essays, is often subject to debate.
The Case for Contractions
Proponents of using contractions in college essays argue that they enhance the natural flow and readability of the text. By omitting unnecessary words and using more concise language, contractions can help the writer convey ideas more effectively and engage the reader. For instance, instead of writing “It is not necessary to include every detail,” one could write “It’s not necessary to include every detail.”
The Case Against Contractions
Opponents of using contractions in college essays maintain that they detract from the formality and professionalism of the writing. They argue that contractions can make the text appear casual and conversational, which is not appropriate for a formal academic setting. Additionally, some readers may perceive contractions as unprofessional or sloppy. For instance, instead of writing “It’s not necessary to include every detail,” one could write “It is not necessary to include every detail.”
Usage Guidelines
Ultimately, the decision of whether to use contractions in a college essay depends on the specific context and the writer’s style. However, the following guidelines can provide some clarity:
- Formal vs. Informal Writing: Contractions are generally discouraged in formal academic writing, such as essays, research papers, and dissertations. These documents require a more formal tone and style, and contractions can undermine the seriousness and credibility of the writing.
- Field and Discipline: Some fields and disciplines, such as the humanities and social sciences, may be more tolerant of contractions than others, such as the hard sciences and mathematics. It is always advisable to check with the instructor or department guidelines before using contractions in an academic paper.
- Purpose and Audience: Consider the purpose of the essay and the intended audience. If the essay is written to impress a professor or admissions officer, it is generally safer to avoid contractions. However, if the essay is written for a more informal or conversational audience, contractions may be more appropriate.
- Consistency: If you choose to use contractions in your essay, be consistent in their use. Avoid using some contractions and not others, as this can create an inconsistent and awkward tone.
Alternative Options
If you are unsure about whether or not to use contractions in your college essay, consider the following alternatives:
- Use informal language without contractions: Instead of writing “It’s not necessary to include every detail,” write “It is unnecessary to include every detail.”
- Use formal language with contractions: Instead of writing “It is not necessary to include every detail,” write “It is not needful to include every detail.”
- Paraphrase the sentence: Instead of writing “It’s not necessary to include every detail,” write “It is prudent to be selective in the inclusion of details.”
Tips and Tricks
- Self-check: Before submitting your college essay, proofread it carefully and remove any contractions that may come across as unprofessional or informal.
- Refer to style guides: Consult style guides and handbooks to determine the appropriate usage of contractions in specific contexts.
- Seek feedback: Ask a trusted source, such as a professor, tutor, or writing center staff member, to review your essay and provide feedback on the use of contractions.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Enhances readability and flow
- Makes the text sound more natural
- Saves space
Cons:
- Can make the text appear casual
- Some readers may perceive them as unprofessional
- May not be appropriate for all writing contexts
Conclusion
The use of contractions in college essays is a topic that continues to be debated. While some argue that contractions enhance readability and naturalness, others maintain that they detract from the formality and professionalism of the writing. Ultimately, the decision of whether to use contractions depends on the specific context, the writer’s style, and the intended audience. By carefully considering the guidelines and alternatives presented in this article, writers can make an informed choice about the use of contractions in their college essays.
Additional Considerations
In addition to the guidelines and tips provided above, it is important to consider the following:
- Context: The context in which you use contractions is crucial. Contractions are acceptable in informal settings, such as personal letters or online messages. However, they should be used with caution in more formal settings.
- Purpose: Consider the purpose of your writing. If you are writing a formal paper for a class or job application, it is best to avoid contractions. However, if you are writing a personal essay or blog post, you may use contractions more freely.
- Audience: Consider your audience. If you are writing for a general audience, contractions may be acceptable. However, if you are writing for a specific audience that may find contractions inappropriate, it is best to avoid them.
Conclusion
Contractions can be a useful tool for writers, but they should be used with caution in college essays. By following the guidelines and tips presented in this article, writers can make an informed decision about the use of contractions and ensure that their writing is effective and appropriate for the specific context.