When composing any form of writing, it is consequential to keep in mind the audience who will most likely be reading that work. Depending on whom the article is for, a piece may need to portray greater formality or have a more casual structure. Different types of language are used, as well as varying levels of length and depth.
When I am writing a journal, it is unlikely that anyone but I will read that work, so I tend to be very lenient and relaxed when it comes to grammatical and sentence structure. My journal keeping is much the same as when I speak, full of errors and constantly back-peddling and repeating ideas I have already stated.
On the opposite side of the scale, when I am writing intending to show others or have it analyzed by a superior, I tend to be more careful with my words and sentence structure. I slow down and meticulously edit what I have written, often attempting to read my works from an outside perspective to visualize how others may react. The way a professor would read something is altogether unlike a peer might.
A writer needs to be able to know and understand their audience. To suitably be able to connect, the language and dynamics of the piece must be in line with the reader's level of understanding. Whether writing poetry, research essays, food reviews, or fantasy novels, authors must learn how to appropriately address their subject of choice to generate the finest level of understanding from their audience.
Hi Natalie,
I liked your point on seeing academic work from a professor's perspective. Sometimes when writing and editing my essays, I should slow down and read it from the perspective of a wise professor. I agree that an author should be invested in knowing their audience when they form pieces of writing, because words and meanings behind them can be misinterpreted if given to the wrong audience. Overall, you did a great job on this blog!
Ramona
Howdy Natalie, your comment about trying to read from another perspective caught my eye. The ability to remove yourself from your own voice and bias is something that many writers and readers really struggle with. Being able to do that is an amazing way to improve your writing skills!