Writing Help and Hints
*Follow correct MLA style.
~use proper heading
~double space only
~if you quote you must include a works cited page
~book titles are either italicized or underlined
*Avoid contractions in a formal English paper.
*Be as concise as possible. Eliminate unnecessary words or phrases.
~For example, instead of writing, "I realized by the time I was in
third grade that I was learning to love reading," say, "In third
grade I learned to love reading."
*Do not write in sentence fragments.
*Proof read. In fact, I would encourage you to read your paper outloud before you turn in the final copy.
*Avoid switching tenses in a paragraph or in a sentence.
*Use transitions.
*Sentences that incorporate lists must use parallel structure within the list.
*Avoid passive voice.
~For example, write "I learned to read during the few hours that
the house was quiet," instead of "My learning to read was done
during the few hours that the house was quiet."
*Do not write, "I believe," "I feel," or "In my experience." This is implied since you are the author and this is a personal narrative.
Fulfill the page requirement. If the assignment states 4-6 pages, three and a half pages does not fulfill the length requirement.
*Vary sentence structure. Do not begin every sentence with "I" verb.
*Avoid cliches.
*Do not use "you" unless you are specifically addressing your reader personally. Use "one" or "the reader" instead.
*Books should be referred to in present tense because you can always read one right now.
*Do not use unclear pronouns.
~For example, do not begin a sentence with "it" unless it is
explicit to whom or what "it" is referring to.
*Avoid the adverbs "always" and "usually."
*Personal pronouns come last in a series.
~For example, use "my sister and me" instead of "me and
my sister."
*Avoid using more than one exclamation point per essay.
*Try to make your introduction interesting, but not a cliche.
~For example, many began a literacy narrative with, "Reading has
always been a big part of my life," "I cannot remember a time
when I did not enjoy reading," or "Reading had been a major
aspect of my life for as long as I can remember." See the similarity?
Use your own voice in writing and be original.
*Avoid double negatives in a sentence.