Language:
* Slang and colloquialisms: Formal writing demands a precise and elevated vocabulary. Avoid casual language, even if it seems more natural.
* Clichés and overused phrases: These can make your writing sound unoriginal and dull. Opt for fresh and specific language.
* Jargon and technical terms: Unless your audience is well-versed in the topic, avoid technical language. Explain concepts clearly and concisely.
* Contractions: Formal writing usually avoids contractions like "don't" or "can't."
* First-person pronouns (I, me, my): While there are exceptions, formal writing often uses a third-person perspective for objectivity.
* Overuse of adjectives and adverbs: These can add unnecessary weight to your writing. Focus on strong verbs and precise nouns.
Style:
* Informal sentence structure: Formal writing favors complex sentence structures and varied sentence lengths to create a sophisticated rhythm.
* Repetition and redundancy: Be concise and avoid unnecessary repetition of words or ideas.
* Too much exposition: Don't overwhelm the reader with too much information or background. Focus on the core points and weave in details strategically.
* Personal opinions and biases: Formal writing should be objective and unbiased. State facts and present arguments logically.
* Emotional language: While some emotion can be appropriate, avoid overly sentimental or subjective language.
* Humor: Formal writing typically avoids humor, especially if it is informal or potentially offensive.
Structure:
* Disorganized paragraphs: Paragraphs should be cohesive and focused, with a clear topic sentence and supporting evidence.
* Lack of transitions: Use transition words and phrases to connect ideas smoothly and guide the reader through the text.
* Incomplete or unclear arguments: Ensure your arguments are well-supported with evidence and logic.
Other Considerations:
* Lack of proofreading: Formal writing requires careful proofreading for errors in grammar, spelling, and punctuation.
* Poor formatting: Pay attention to formatting details like font, margins, and spacing to create a professional and readable document.
Remember: The most important thing is to understand your audience and the specific purpose of your writing. Formal writing is about clarity, precision, and authority, so strive to achieve these qualities in every sentence.