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Is using contractions okay in a college essay?

Hi everyone! I'm in the process of editing my college essay and I noticed that I've used a few contractions (like I'm, don't, etc.). I've heard mixed opinions on whether or not to use them. Should I keep the contractions or rewrite those parts? Thanks for your advice!

11 months ago

Hi there! It's great to see you're paying attention to the details in your essay. Although some people may argue that contractions can appear informal, it's generally acceptable to use them in college essays. It's important, however, to strike a balance between sounding genuine and being overly casual.

When deciding whether to keep the contractions, consider the tone and voice you want to convey in your essay. Contractions can help create a more natural, conversational tone, which can make your writing more relatable and engaging. On the other hand, if you feel that removing them would make your essay sound more polished and academic, then go for it.

Ultimately, the choice is yours, but remember that the most important thing is to be true to your voice and maintain consistency throughout your essay. Best of luck with your editing!

11 months ago

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