Guidelines about writing style

• Do not write in the first-person.
• Do not use slang or colloquialisms.
• Do not use clever or "cutesy" language. Being creative with one's prose is fine, but don't waste space trying to be funny or sardonic. That's not the appropriate tone for academic writing.
• Avoid using the word "very." It actually weakens your sentences, because it sounds like special pleading. I find this word crops up far too often in student papers. The worst offense? Saying something is "very unique." This is what I mean by weakening a sentence. Something is either unique or it is not. Avoid using such filler words.
• Similarly, mind how often you use the words "always" and "never." "Often" and "rarely" are usually more precise. I think people use words like "always" and "never" to try to make their point more strongly, but if the usage is not actually correct, then it just looks like you don't really understand what you're discussing.
• There seems to be a common problem of broad generalizations and vague language. Be specific when you're making a point. Make sure you're explaining why something happened. Give examples to prove your points. Make explicit connections. Remember, these are argumentative papers, so proofread them and ask yourself, "How clearly have I made my point? How much evidence and explanation have I used to support my argument?"