Academic Writing

Academic Writing

These resources will help you with writing in your courses at Hallmark University. Academic writing refers to a style of expression researchers use to define the intellectual boundaries of their disciplines and specific areas of expertise. Characteristics of academic writing include a formal tone, use of the third-person rather than first-person perspective (usually), a clear focus on the research problem under investigation, and precise word choice. This type of writing is prevalent in disciplines across the humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and professional fields.

Common Types of Academic Writing

1. Research Papers: Detailed studies presenting original research, including methodology, data, and findings.
2. Essays: Shorter pieces that argue a specific point or analyze a particular topic.
3. Literature Reviews: Surveys of existing research on a particular topic, summarizing and synthesizing the findings.
4. Theses and Dissertations: Extensive research projects completed as part of a degree program.
5. Reports: Structured documents presenting information on a specific topic, often including recommendations.

Adapted from Academic Writing. Writing Center. Colorado Technical College; Hartley, James. Academic Writing and Publishing: A Practical Guide. New York: Routledge, 2008.