It may be okay in emails and text messages, but these days, informal or colloquial writing is just not acceptable. If you want to come across as a professional, educated and talented writer, then you need to be aware of what colloquial writing is, and how you can avoid it in your writing. Whether it's on your résumé, your weekly business report, or even your website content, formal writing is a much more professional approach that builds your reputation as someone who is educated and knows what they're talking about. Use these tips and suggestions to learn how to avoid colloquial (informal) writing.
- Use proper spelling. I know, it takes so much longer to write "tonight" instead of "2nite", but the latter is just too informal. And for those of us who aren't code breakers, this informal spelling is difficult to decipher at the best of times. Use correct spelling all of the time, avoid short forms, and don't use words that aren't in the dictionary. (No, gotcha and ain't are NOT in the dictionary!)
- Use basic punctuation. Although you may think that you're being more technical by throwing in a semi-colon or a dash here and there, it often clutters up your writing. Try to avoid any unnecessary punctuation, sticking to short and simple sentences. The easier your sentences flow, the more the reader will appreciate your writing.
- Don't write as you would speak. So, like, you know, I totally don't even do that OMG! When you're trying to avoid colloquial (informal) writing, you need to leave out words and phrases that aren't essential to getting your point across. Avoid using well, like, for sure, you know, and any other phrase that takes you back to your high school years.
- Spell out the words. Even though there are some acceptable short forms of words (such as contractions like won't and shouldn't), make it a habit to spell out everything. Use would not and should not. It makes your writing seem much more formal.
- Don't use clichés. If you want your writing to seem professional, then you need to use a basic language that all English speakers will be familiar with. Don't use clichés or idioms that people may not understand. There are certainly much better ways of expressing your thoughts. Clichés are perhaps one of the most informal things you could include in your writing. But don't cry over spilt milk or have a cow. Your reader audience will be head-over-heels with writing that doesn't include such inappropriate clichés as these.
- Proofread. You'll need to make sure that your grammar and sentence structure is acceptable. Have you included any run-on sentences? Did you use words that perhaps could have been said more formally (without going overboard)? Don't start your sentences with but or because or any other word that would be more appropriate in the middle of a sentence. Simple sentences that are to the point are key. If you're concerned, use a spelling and grammar checker, and come back to your work a day later to give yourself a fresh perspective on your writing.
When it comes to professional writing, you can never be too aware of how your writing sounds. In order to avoid colloquial writing, you need to remove the personal aspect from the writing. Yes, it will almost surely sound like a textbook, but in the professional world, this is what is expected.
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