Guide to Writing

WORDS ONE SHOULD NEVER USE IN ACADEMIC WRITING
(OR, AT THE LEAST, LIMIT THEIR USAGE DRAMATICALLY!)
WORD
Alot
A lot
Sort of/Kind of
Like
Just
As
Really
You
Believe
Feel
Think
Give
Say
Show
Tell
Once again
As stated before
Finally
Lastly
Firstly
Secondly
Used to
People that

REASONING
NOT a word!
Vague phrase. What is a lot for you may not be a lot for someone else.
Need I explain these? Markers want specifics, not vague and undetermined comments.
“It was, like, very bright outside.” What has this word done? Weaken your writing!
Like above, just is a ‘lard’ word – adds fat, but no protein to your writing.
Same as reasoning for ‘just,’ and can indicate a simile. AVOID similes and metaphors in
academic writing whenever possible!
Vague word. Find something more specific.
Never belongs in an essay! ALWAYS avoid ‘talking’ to the reader.
It’s your opinion. The reader knows it’s what you believe.
This is sensory. “I feel like going to a different movie” is wrong. “I feel sad” or “I feel hungry”
is correct usage. Demonstrate emotions with words, actions, and others’ reactions.
It’s your opinion. The reader knows it’s what you think.
Weak word. Many better substitutes.
Weak word. Many better substitutes.
Weak word. Many better substitutes.
Weak word. Many better substitutes.
Restate and/or rephrase, don’t repeat.
Restate and/or rephrase, don’t repeat.
Weak word. Just conclude or start your last statement.
Weak word. Just conclude or start your last statement.
Seldom used and awkward. Find a different way to start your paragraph or sentence.
Seldom used and awkward. Find a different way to transition to the next
idea/topic/argument.
Weak, ineffectual statement. Be more specific. “In the past,” “Prior to,” “Previously” etc.
People are not objects! ALWAYS refer to people as ‘who’ or ‘whom’.
I.e., “The students who completed their work” is correct usage. “The dog that ate the turkey
is in trouble” is correct usage.

Any and...