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Academic writing

Expert guidance from Study Advice at the University of Reading

You probably spend a lot of time writing - emails, texts, shopping lists, letters to friends, filling in forms etc. For each of these, you will use a different style of writing, choosing whichever is appropriate for the purpose and the people you are writing for. 

The style of writing you will be expected to use for academic work is likely to be different to other styles you use every day. It is part of your academic training to learn how to write in this more formal style - it demonstrates discipline and thoughtfulness, and is important to communicate your ideas clearly. This guide offers advice on developing key aspects of your academic writing.  

If you are studying in English as a second or additional language, the Academic English Programme offers courses, webinars and 1:1 consultations to help you improve your academic English while you study.