Also known as scholarly writing, academic writing is a formal style of writing used in universities and school publications. It differs a lot from business writing and article writing. There are several ways you can sharpen your academic writing skills:
1. Practice
The more you write, the better you will become. Set aside time each week to write, and try to write on various topics.
2. Read much to perfect your academic writing
Reading other people’s writing, especially in your field, can help you understand what academic writing expects. That will expose you to new ideas and ways of expressing them.
3. Seek feedback
Ask a professor, tutor, or peer to read your writing and provide feedback. It can help you identify areas for improvement and give you a fresh perspective on your work.
4. Edit and proofread
Make sure to proofread your work for spelling, grammar, and punctuation errors. It is advisable to have someone else read your work to catch any grammatical errors you might have missed.
5. Understand the assignment
Make sure you fully understand the assignment and the requirements before you draft anything. The motive is to stay focused and on track as you write.
6. Use credible sources
Use high-quality, credible sources to support your arguments. The benefit of this is to make your writing more persuasive and helps you earn the trust of your readers.
7. Use a clear and concise writing style
Avoid unnecessary words and be as clear and concise as possible. Use transitional words and phrases to help guide the reader through your argument. Academic essays are probably some of the most common forms of writing.
What do you think about these tips?