Checklist: Academic writing

I avoid informal terms and contractions.

I avoid second-person pronouns (“you”).

I avoid emotive or exaggerated language.

I avoid redundant words and phrases.

I avoid unnecessary jargon and define terms where needed.

I present information as precisely and accurately as possible.

I use appropriate transitions to show the connections between my ideas.

My text is logically organized using paragraphs.

Each paragraph is focused on a single idea, expressed in a clear topic sentence.

Every part of the text relates to my central thesis or research question.

I support my claims with evidence.

I use the appropriate verb tenses in each section.

I consistently use either UK or US English.

I format numbers consistently.

I cite my sources using a consistent citation style.