When you read about writing and “voice,” it can mean many different things: most commonly, it’s discussed in the context of fiction writing. However, broadly defined, “voice” simply refers to the sound of the writing. How would you write a text to a friend compared to an email to a colleague? You likely use a different “voice” for each one.
Scholars strive for an impersonal voice that focuses on conveying thoughts and ideas. Professional writing strives to be accessible for a wide audience. Both types of writing avoid personal reference (e.g., “I think” or “I read”). Colloquial phrases (“I’ve got time today” or “That was woke”) are avoided. For both scholarly and professional writing, you must write in a different way from how you talk. Given that, answer one of the following questions:
What is it like for you to develop a scholarly and professional writing voice?,
What’s one thing you want your colleagues’ advice on?,
What’s one piece of advice about this specialized writing that you would offer a colleague
Developing a Scholarly Voice
Developing a scholarly and professional writing voice can be a gradual process that involves honing clarity and formality. It requires finding a balance between expressing complex ideas and adhering to academic conventions. Initially, this can feel challenging, as it often involves moving away from casual language and personal anecdotes. However, with practice, the voice becomes more natural, allowing for effective communication of thoughts and research.
Seeking Colleagues’ Advice
I would appreciate advice on strategies for incorporating diverse perspectives and sources into my writing. Balancing different viewpoints while maintaining coherence can be difficult, and I would love to hear how others approach this.
Advice for Colleagues
One piece of advice I would offer is to embrace constructive feedback. Sharing drafts with colleagues can provide valuable insights and help refine your writing voice. Being open to critique not only improves your work but also fosters a collaborative learning environment.
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