When writing the most important papers, we tend to use academic language, but maybe we're not doing it right. ]
Academic language sneaks into the brain
When facing the task of writing our Bachelor's or Master's Thesis, it is common to wonder about the use of academic language. Is it really necessary? Will I be able to write like that? Throughout our university studies, we have read a million texts that almost seem to be written by the same person or by a group of authors belonging to the same stylistic current (usually not very stylish), which has surely made us think that this is how we should write. In fact, it is common for us to feel that our own way of writing has been transformed to almost completely emulate a series of narrative formulas and terminology that we have seen repeated ad nauseam in the academic material we have consulted.
The importance of academic language
Its main objective is to communicate ideas in a precise and professional manner. Using this style of language allows us to:
- Show academic rigor: It demonstrates that we understand and can apply the specialized knowledge of our discipline.
- Provide credibility: The appropriate use of academic language can make our ideas be taken more seriously.
- Facilitate evaluation: Evaluators are accustomed to this type of language and expect to find a formal and technical style.
But... what is academic language really?
The fact that most of the recommended texts during the degree are similar does not mean that we should also write like that, it means that their authors are not great writers and that they have been more concerned about what is said than how it is said. To put it simply: academic language only sets guidelines for us to follow in order to construct a text that is academically valid. It is more of a style guide than a form of writing, which means that it will dictate line spacing, font type, how and where to cite, margins, how to reflect the methodology used in our research, length... Therefore, we will have to cite as indicated (generally in APA style), but we do not have to write in the same way. Writing is like the fingerprint of our thoughts, and if we all do it the same way, it means that we have lost the ability to think for ourselves. That being said, in an academic work we will have to use correct language and the jargon specific to our field of knowledge. We will also have to follow the formatting rules given to us, but we don't have to write in the same way as everyone else.
The ugliness of academic language
How satisfying it is when we pick up a text that we have to study and understand it on the first try. How wonderful when it makes us learn without making us feel stupid. How enjoyable when, in addition, the narrative style allows us to enjoy reading it. How many times does this happen from the moment we enter university until we obtain our
eTítulo? Depending on the degree we have chosen, we may have four fingers left on one hand to count them. The ugliness of academic language is that it has forgotten that how things are told matters a lot. It has forgotten that taking care of the writing (not just the format) is a sign of respect towards readers. It has forgotten the importance of clarity.
Quintilian said that "The goal of clarity means not that what we say can be understood, but that it cannot, in any way, not be understood." How many times have we gone back in an academic text because we didn't understand it? The first time, it may be our fault for being distracted, but the second time, it is the author's fault for not expressing themselves clearly.
The even uglier side of academic language
What would happen if a brilliant History student read one of the typical academic texts of Procedural Law? What would happen if a brilliant Robotics student read a typical academic text of Spanish Language Morphology? What would happen if a person who has only studied compulsory education read an academic text on any of the knowledge that is essential for their life, such as Medicine or Law? One day, we divided knowledge among ourselves and jealously guarded our scientific discoveries, each profession for itself. Let no one deceive us, we did it out of a power struggle and, to maintain our small portion, we codified knowledge. Academic jargon and its particular way of expression is the code, and only those who belong to the profession or those who are starting in it will have access to it. Knowledge, culture, should not be elitist, but accessible to anyone, and it is in academic language where we can make an impact to broaden its reach. Let's see how to do it:
Explain specialized terms
When using specific terminology, it is important to define these terms the first time they appear. This not only helps with understanding, but also demonstrates our ability to explain complex concepts clearly.
Use clear and concise language
Clarity and conciseness are key in any type of writing. Instead of using long and complicated sentences, let's opt for short and direct ones. This not only makes our work easier to read, but also reduces the risk of misunderstandings.
Avoid unnecessary jargon
Although some technical terms are necessary, we should avoid unnecessary jargon that may confuse the reader. If we can express an idea with simpler words without losing precision, it is preferable to do so.
Incorporate examples and analogies
Examples and analogies are effective tools for explaining complex ideas. Comparing an academic concept to something more familiar can facilitate understanding and make our work more interesting.
Revise and seek feedback
It is essential to revise our work and seek feedback before submitting it. Reading aloud can help us detect confusing or overly complex sentences. Also, asking someone who is not familiar with the topic to read our work can provide valuable insight into the clarity of the text.
Maintain a professional yet accessible tone
Our tone should be professional, but that does not mean it has to be distant or inaccessible. A correct yet approachable tone can make our work more appealing and understandable, without losing the seriousness required of an academic text.
