The How's and Why's of Formal Versus Informal Writing

by Edie Melson @EdieMelson

This question came from one of our community, Barbara Harper! I always appreciate questions like this because it’s easy to overlook some things and assume everyone knows what we’re talking about. Just FYI, when the issue came up, Barbara did her homework and figured out what these terms meant. But she went one step further and made sure we had the info here on The Write Conversation.

Sometimes we get told our writing is too formal or that we need to write more conversationally. That’s great feedback, but what are some specific techniques we can use and why do we need them?

Definitions

Formal writing is something you’d see in serious academic creations. Think term papers, thesis, research. It’s also something we see in the legal, medical, and engineering professions. 

Formal writing often feels superior—like the writer is talking down to the ignorant reader. It can also convey a coldness that leaves readers feeling disconnected.

Informal (sometimes called conversational) writing resembles the way we talk to each other in everyday life. It’s not dumbed down, as some have accused. Instead it’s learning to speak to our audiences in ways that provide a connection. 

Conversational writing works to connect with the reader and put them at ease. It avoids talking down and concentrates on engaging the reader where they are. 

7 Specific Tips for Informal (Conversational) Writing

1. Avoid too many large words. The overuse of multisyllabic words require the reader to stop and look up meanings. Unfamiliar words also slow down the reading. This doesn’t mean we shouldn’t use uncommon words—only that the words should have enough context to make our meaning clear.

2. Insert personal stories. This helps our readers understand we’re writing from a place of connection, instead of just telling them what to do. Also, in the new world of AI, inserting personal stories assures search engines that person wrote the words, not artificial intelligence.

3. Avoid words that exclude. This is important for those of us who write Christian themes. There is a kind of code in those who are deeply involved in church—with phrases that have absolutely no meaning for anyone not in the clique. We call this avoiding Christianize. 

4. Use plenty of contractions. When we talk we say don’t instead of do not, wouldn’t instead of would not, and we’re instead of we are. I have a quirk when I write—I forget to use contractions. I have no idea why, but I do. Since I know that, one of the first things I do when I edit is look for places to put in contractions. The best way I’ve found to do that is to read what I’ve written out loud. That makes me automatically replace formal writing with informal. 

5. Avoid too many complex sentences. I got some excellent advice early in my writing career. “If you can say it simpler, do it.” Many writers get caught up in the beauty of the words, using too many metaphors, similes, and other techniques that cause our writing to lose focus. We should strive to vary our sentence length and style, but we should never allow our writing to be wordy. 

6. Use active verbs and specific nouns. A lot of formal writing is characterized by passive voice. Keeping the tone active, keeps the reader engaged.

7. Use your voice. Every writer has a distinct voice. I could write an entire blog post on voice, but Cindy Sproles has already done an excellent job of that. To learn more about your writing voice, visit Tips to Find Your Writing Voice. 

Our writing style will affect how our words are received. There is power in learning to write simply and eloquently. And remembering that those two techniques are never mutually exclusive. 

Now it’s your turn. What would you add to the list? Be sure to leave your thoughts, and any questions you have, in the comments section below. 

Don’t forget to join the conversation!

Blessings, 

Edie

TWEETABLE

The How's and Why's of Formal Versus Informal Writing from @EdieMelson (Click to Tweet)

Edie Melson is a woman of faith with ink-stained fingers observing life through the lens of her camera. No matter whether she’s talking to writers, entrepreneurs, or readers, her first advice is always “Find your voice, live your story.” As an author, blogger, and speaker she’s encouraged and challenged audiences across the country and around the world. Her numerous books reflect her passion to help others develop the strength of their God-given gifts and apply them to their lives.Connect with her on her website, through Facebook, X and on Instagram.