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
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 . mutual benefits lessons , findings issues , concerns problems , issues synergies learnings pain points blockers
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 .
Repetition
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 :
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 .
Don ' t use as a matter of fact cutting edge in the loop in today ' s ever increasing ... next generation at the end of the day give the heads up in the pipeline moving forward think outside the box
Writing Style Guide | The principles of good writing 23 | Back to contents