UNSW Writing Style Guide UNSW Writing Style Guide | Page 16

Jargon and technical terms

Technical terms appear often in the higher education , scientific and academic spheres . The most important thing is to ensure the copy is easy for your audience to understand . If you ’ re speaking to experts in a particular field , industry terminology might be appropriate , but otherwise aim to use more common terms or clearly explain the technical terms you are using to avoid confusing the reader or making them lose interest .

Wherever possible , use a common , accurate word . Ask yourself whether the word has a specific meaning , and whether there ’ s a more natural way to say it . Avoid using legalese or instructional language unless it is appropriate in the context .

Examples of buzzwords and corporate speak :

Use

Don ’ t use use leverage , operationalise mutual benefits synergies lessons , findings learnings issues , concerns pain points problems , issues blockers

Colloquialisms

Be careful when using colloquialisms . What might seem frequently used and broadly understood colloquial or slang language might be confusing or even offensive to some of our diverse audiences . Colloquial language has a place in informal communication but is best used sparingly . Vulgarisms are rarely justified , even in direct quotes , and should be avoided .

Contractions

Using contractions can make the tone of your writing more approachable :

We understand that you may find it hard to study when you ’ re unwell . That ’ s why we have processes in place to support you .

We understand that you may find it hard to study when you are unwell . That is why we have processes in place to support you .

There are times when a contraction doesn ’ t seem right or it ruins the flow of a sentence . Indeed , some contractions (‘ they ’ d ’, ‘ would ’ ve ’, ‘ who ’ d ’) can come across as too casual . If in doubt , don ’ t use a contraction .

Clichés and buzzwords

As with repetition , clichés and buzzwords make writing seem tired and bland . It ’ s okay to use appropriate ( and creative ) metaphors , but avoid tired phrases like ‘ ready and waiting ’, ‘ bright and early ’ and ‘ no time like the present ’. It ’ s always better to show your readers by using fresh and original language to describe your subject , rather than tell them with a cliché . Some phrases to avoid :

Repetition

Repeatedly using the same word in a sentence or paragraph comes across as lazy and unimaginative . Use a thesaurus to find a natural alternative , or rephrase the sentence .

Try to avoid starting every sentence with a noun – such as ‘ UNSW ’, ‘ We ’, ‘ It ’ or ‘ The degree ’ – which can halt the flow in your writing and make it hard to gain momentum . Mixing up the sentence structure is a great way to make your writing more energetic and engaging .

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