Write in a formal style

When to use formal register

In essays, reports, work emails and exams, on any topic. Not in a message to a friend.

Formal register: how to do it

Formal writing has no short forms (don't, it's), no chatty words (stuff, kids, pretty, really) and no questions to the reader. Instead of 'I think' again and again, use phrases that start with 'It' or 'This': 'It could be argued that ...', 'There is evidence that ...', 'This suggests ...'. Stay formal from the first sentence to the last. Choose precise words (undermine, a compelling case) instead of general ones like good, bad, big or thing.

Useful language for formal register

• It could be argued that ...
• There is evidence to suggest that ...
• It is widely accepted that ...
• This suggests that ...
• a considerable number of ...
• obtain / receive (not get)

Example of formal register

It is widely accepted that young children struggle to distinguish advertising from ordinary entertainment. This makes them particularly vulnerable to marketing for unhealthy food, which is often presented through cartoon characters and games. There is evidence to suggest that exposure to such advertising increases children's requests for the products concerned, placing considerable pressure on parents. Some countries, including Sweden and Norway, already restrict television advertising aimed at young children. It could be argued that responsibility lies with families rather than with legislators. However, parents cannot realistically monitor every advertisement their children encounter across television, mobile apps, games and video platforms, many of which are designed to hold attention for as long as possible. For this reason, restrictions on food advertising aimed at young audiences appear to be a proportionate measure. They would not remove the influence of marketing entirely, but they would reduce it at the age when children are least able to resist it.

Topic: Advertising to children

How the BetterWrite coach checks formal register

The BetterWrite coach checks 5 points for this skill, plus accuracy and staying on topic, and quotes your own words when one is not there yet.

Try it

Write one paragraph (150-220 words) about the effects of social media on teenagers in a formal, impersonal style, as if for an academic or professional reader.

Write 150-220 words (one full paragraph).

Related guides

• Overusing “I think”: better ways to give an opinion Common mistake
• Missing articles: when to use a, an and the Common mistake
• Informal words in formal writing: register slips Common mistake
• Passive voice mistakes: is made, was built Common mistake
• Missing subjects: “Is possible that ...” and how to fix it Common mistake
• Formal style in writing at B2 B2
• Previous skill: How to write a fully developed argument paragraph C1
• Next skill: Comparing two views and reaching a judgement in an essay C1