Running head: FORMAL V.

INFORMAL

Maurika Smutherman Formal v. Informal Writing Compare Contrast Essay Mrs. Elizabeth Priest Winston-Salem State University

FORMAL V. INFORMAL Formal v. Informal Writing Compare Contrast Essay There are two types of writing when it comes to English formal and informal. The main way to differentiate between the two is by looking at diction and syntax. Formal writing may contain jargon, complex sentences and big words. On the other hand, informal writing might include clichs, short sentences and simple words. While formal writing is professional and widely recognized, informal writing allows the author to be creative and personable. Whatever your preference, each method has its benefits and drawbacks. To begin, formal writing uses a specified format and there are many rules when it comes to completing an academic or professional essay. Academic emails and research papers are just a few instances when formal writing is used. There are several formats to choose from when it comes to formal writing including APA, MLA, Turabian and Chicago style. Writers might be asked to include an abstract and title page or write up a reference page. When writing a formal paper, writers should complete at least two drafts, sometimes three, before getting a Figure 1. Smutherman, M. (2013). Formal paper readability statistics
[screenshot].

final product. Formal writing takes a lot of time and effort and theres a solid reason for that. For example, you are a recent college graduate and have just come

across an ad for your dream job as a TV anchor. In order to apply, you must send in a resume, samples of your work and a letter of intent; this is a letter explaining why you would be great for a specific position and detailing your motivation for applying. You have never written a letter of intent before; it seems easy enough, but after you quickly write up your letter and send it in, months pass without any word. You give the hiring manager a call and he informs you that they reviewed your application but chose to go with someone else. When you ask why, the manager explains that there were simple grammatical and spelling errors in your letter of intent, which made you appear incompetent for such a rigorous position. All in all, if you would have taken more time and asked for someone to edit your letter before sending it in, you would have had a better chance of getting the job.

FORMAL V. INFORMAL As illustrated in Figure 1, a formal paper will result in strong readability statistics. Word count can end up in the thousands and there are typically several sentences per paragraph; in this case there are 1,045 words in the formal essay and 10.6 sentences per paragraph. Furthermore, formal writing permits an interesting array of diction. For example, Figure 2 displays a mash-up of words from a formal essay about gun control. Intermediate to advanced diction is used, including words like firearms and regulation. Formal writing can be challenging; therefore, there are many resources available for anyone having trouble. Colleges and universities usually have writing centers where students can get help with the beginning stages of their paper and have essays reviewed and edited. Also, there are many online sources to receive writing help such as Purdue Owl online, the Citation Machine and more. Formal writing can pay off in the grand Figure 2. Smutherman, M. (2013). Formal paper Wordle [screenshot].

scheme of things. If an essay is written exceptionally well, it could be published by an academic journal or website. Also, news articles using AP style can be published in student newspapers and online. Moving on, rather than taking a serious approach, writers should focus on creativity when it comes to informal writing; examples include blog or social-media posts and emails to friends and family. Short stories, personal narratives and creative essays are also examples of informal writing. Writers make their own rules when writing informally, rather than following specified guidelines. Figure 3 displays the readability statistics of an informal papera blog post. The paper yields only 410 words and 18 sentences; Figure 3. Smutherman, M. (2013). Informal paper readability statistics [screenshot].

FORMAL V. INFORMAL there are just 3 sentences per paragraph with 4.4 characters per word. These statistics are much weaker than those of a formal paper. It is apparent that syntax takes more of a backseat when writing informally. Moreover, Figure 4 illustrates a wordle for the informal paper, showing just how simple diction is when it comes to this type of writing. Nevertheless, informal writing can reap benefits just like formal writing. An informal paper can be posted online in a blog or on other websites. There are countless resources for help with informal writing including websites, blogs and more. Also, informal writing is exciting for audiences to read, as long as they can understand what the writer is trying to get across. In conclusion, formal writing and informal writing differ in many areas. Formal writing is professional, and takes a while to complete. On the other hand, informal writing can be a fun experience and involves a lot of creativity and imagination. There are also a lot of elements to consider including diction and syntax. Whether a writer chooses to be formal or informal, the most important thing is getting a point across in a clear and concise manner. Figure 4. Smutherman, M. (2013). Informal paper Wordle [screenshot].