When should you use an informal writing style for your report?
Langston Hughes once said, “The prerequisite for writing is having something to say.” But you are probably aware that there are many different styles of writing — and it pays to know which to use situationally. When it comes to formal vs informal writing styles, there is a time and place for each. By understanding their nuances and respective best practices, you can continue to improve your writing. Show
We will break all of this down and more, with examples. This can serve as a useful guide on formal vs informal writing for you throughout your educational journey (and beyond). Defining Formal vs Informal Writing StylesFormalFormal writing is written for an audience you do not know on a personal level. It is often the main style in academic writing (unless otherwise noted) and is more complex than informal writing. Formal writing is serious. InformalInformal writing consists of short sentences and is used in more personal settings, such as writing a letter to a friend or writing a diary entry. It is much more relaxed than formal writing. Which Style is Appropriate?Knowing the difference between formal and informal writing is only half the battle. The other important aspect is knowing which to use. Here are some examples of when you would use formal vs informal writing. Use Formal Writing When:
Use Informal Writing When:
If you are unsure of whether to use informal or formal writing, it’s generally the rule of thumb to start out writing formally. Then, when you make the connection and you see how the other side responds, you can ease up on the formality. Key Features of Formal vs. Informal WritingWhile the above gives a simple overview of the differences and uses of each style, let’s take a deeper look into what each style entails. That way, it should become more obvious how to recognize and structure each. Formal writing tends to include the following:
Informal writing includes the following:
Formal vs Informal Writing Comparison GuideAdditional ConsiderationsThere are a few more things to take into account when starting out on any writing endeavor. These include the following 3 questions:
Here’s an Example!Along with this list of references, here is a (meta) example on how this article would be written both formally and informally:
Tying It All TogetherThere are many differences between formal vs. informal writing. That being said, they both serve their respective purposes. That’s why it’s important to understand both styles, as well as when to use them. When writing professionally or academically, opt for formal writing. Remember to leave out contractions and remain unbiased. On the other hand, informal writing comes from within. It’s aimed towards a personal audience, so you can write as if you are speaking to them. That way, you can use contractions, shorter sentences, colloquialism, and the like. Regardless of why you are writing, always be sure to reread your work to check for typos and mistakes. The most important thing for writing is having something to say, but it’s also making sure that what you say can be understood! When should informal writing be used?Informal language is more casual and spontaneous. It is used when communicating with friends or family either in writing or in conversation. It is used when writing personal emails, text messages and in some business correspondence. The tone of informal language is more personal than formal language.
Why is informal style used?"An informal writing style is a relaxed and colloquial way of writing standard English. It is the style found in most personal e-mail and in some business correspondence, nonfiction books of general interest, and mass-circulation magazines.
Why do we write informal reports?The main purpose of informal reporting is to quickly communicate relevant findings and information to internal members of the company.
What is an informal style of writing?Informal writing consists of short sentences and is used in more personal settings, such as writing a letter to a friend or writing a diary entry. It is much more relaxed than formal writing.
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