Academic Writing vs. Non Academic Writing

Attribute	Academic Writing	Non Academic Writing
Language	Formal, technical	Informal, conversational
Audience	Scholars, researchers	General public
Purpose	Inform, persuade, contribute to knowledge	Entertain, inform, express personal opinions
Tone	Objective, impersonal	Subjective, personal
Citations	Required, sources must be cited	Optional, sources may not be cited

Introduction

Writing is a fundamental skill that is essential in various aspects of life. There are different types of writing, each with its own unique characteristics and purposes. Two common forms of writing are academic writing and non-academic writing. While both serve the purpose of conveying information, they differ in terms of style, tone, audience, and structure.

Attributes of Academic Writing

Academic writing is a formal style of writing that is commonly used in educational settings. It is characterized by its structured and organized approach, as well as its use of evidence and citations to support arguments. Academic writing is typically objective and impersonal, focusing on facts and analysis rather than personal opinions. It also follows a specific format, such as the use of headings, subheadings, and citations in a consistent style (e.g., APA or MLA).

• Structured and organized
• Objective and impersonal
• Use of evidence and citations
• Focus on facts and analysis
• Specific format (e.g., APA or MLA)

Attributes of Non Academic Writing

Non-academic writing, on the other hand, is a more informal style of writing that is often used in everyday communication. It can take many forms, such as creative writing, journalism, blogging, or personal correspondence. Non-academic writing is typically more subjective and expressive, allowing for the use of personal opinions, anecdotes, and emotions. It is less structured than academic writing and may vary in tone depending on the intended audience and purpose.

• Informal and expressive
• Subjective and personal
• Varied in tone
• Less structured
• Used in everyday communication

Style and Tone

One of the key differences between academic writing and non-academic writing is the style and tone used. Academic writing tends to be formal, objective, and impersonal, while non-academic writing is often more informal, subjective, and expressive. In academic writing, the focus is on presenting information in a clear and logical manner, while in non-academic writing, the emphasis is on engaging the reader and conveying a message in a more creative or personal way.

Audience

Another important factor to consider when comparing academic writing and non-academic writing is the intended audience. Academic writing is typically aimed at a scholarly audience, such as professors, researchers, or students, who are looking for well-researched and evidence-based arguments. Non-academic writing, on the other hand, may target a more general audience, such as readers of a blog, magazine, or social media platform, who are seeking entertainment, information, or personal stories.

Structure and Format

Academic writing follows a specific structure and format that is designed to help readers navigate the content and understand the arguments being presented. This includes the use of headings, subheadings, citations, and a formal tone. Non-academic writing, on the other hand, may be less structured and more flexible in terms of format. It may include elements such as dialogue, descriptive language, or narrative techniques to engage the reader and create a more immersive experience.

Conclusion

In conclusion, academic writing and non-academic writing are two distinct forms of writing that serve different purposes and audiences. Academic writing is formal, structured, and objective, while non-academic writing is informal, expressive, and subjective. Understanding the differences between these two types of writing can help writers tailor their style, tone, and format to effectively communicate their message to the intended audience.