Features of Academic Writing

Logical and clear structure

Paragraphs-indents/missing lineLinking words

Paragraph 1

introduces two opposite points of view on the topic/issue

makes his position clear to the reader

Paragraph 2

arguments to support the authors position

Paragraph 3

arguments to explain the opposite position (against)

evidence to defend the author’s position

Paragraph 4

sums up/concludes clearly states the author’s point

of view and supports it by paraphrasing the key arguments from the second and third paragraph

Linking expressions Adding points

In addition Firstly Secondly Thirdly

Introducing examples

Such as For instance For example In particular

Showing contrast

However Although On the other hand Despite the fact that In contrast

Introducing a conclusion

To sum up On balance

Style

Impersonal structures: Some people believe Others think Many people argue Research also shows It is clear that There are certainly different views on

Style

Passive constructions:

It can be seen that This is supported by the fact that

Functional Language Comparing/Contrasting

Women are better drivers than men. Women make worse drivers. Women drove less than men. A woman’s personality makes her a more

competitive driver.

Functional Language Comparing/Contrasting

Women are more patient and polite. They are more likely to stay calm and less likely

to be involved in road rage incidents. Female drivers are more cautious and therefore

take fewer risks. Women are more responsible. Women find map reading more difficult than men

Functional Language Comparing/Contrasting

Women have more accidents. Insurance is cheaper for them. Men tend to have more serious accidents. Women make safer drivers. Women have few accidents in general. They pay lower insurance premiums than men. Women are less competitive and aggressive.

Elliptical constructions

Women tend not to drive when tired. Women have accidents when parking.

More examples: Start when ready. Though intelligent, he was very poorly

educated. When reading instructions, be very attentive.

Linking words

He is patient and careful at work. However/On the other hand/In contrast, he is impatient and aggressive when he drives.

He is patient and careful at work. He is, however/on the other hand/in contrast, impatient and aggressive when he drives.

Linking words

Although/Despite the fact (that) he is patient and careful at work, he is impatient and aggressive when he drives.

He is patient and careful at work, although/despite the fact he is impatient and aggressive when he drives