My First Impression
As a writer, I always think I have little analysis or commentary in mind, but I end up writing a page or two more than the requirement. I usually find myself making complicated arguments that are hard to keep to a mere 4 page limit. So approaching this last assignment, I immediately dreading the start of it, scared that I would write 1500 words instead of the allotted 600.
Yet, it was much simpler than I thought it would be.
Diving into Translating
Trying to get this assignment over with, I jumped into it by summarizing and editing my last essay on inequality and how education changes it. Going paragraph by paragraph, I found condensing it to be straightforward and effortless, instead of being overwhelmed had I taken it all in at once. After I picked out all the important and insightful sentences, I thought about what voice and tone I wanted to use. I naturally have a more formal voice when I write which helps me communicate my argument in a more detailed way. So finding a semi-professional voice and integrating my own opinions was really difficult for me.
Looking at other blogs, it seemed so easy to use first person as it helped the flow of the paragraphs. With its formatting like bolding and subtitles, I received a sense of what the end result would look like and how effective it was in communicating the blog’s message. Unfortunately, my first attempt at using “I” in my writing was a disaster.
I felt stuck and trapped in my old ways, unable to communicate my point without using complicated sentence structures and a series of “fancy” adjectives. I reread sentences and paragraphs, trying to find sections I could insert an “I disagree” or “I would point out that”. Yet, my fear that my writing would sound unprofessional and basic prevented me from being able to truly make a first person point of view fit.
Luckily, peer review saved me and I had the chance to see how my classmates inserted their voices in their paragraphs. Those in my group also gave me useful feedback and tips on how to do this, noting that this was my biggest problem. Reviewing my post, I slowly integrated more “I believe” and “my point is” while remaining true to my normal writing style. I tied in a personal example to make my personality present in the writing, giving the blog post character. Even though my tone isn’t what you’d normally expect from a blog, I’m proud of the changes I made and how I stepped out of my “comfort zone”, as cliche as it is.
Editing my post for the last time, I included metacommentary to give a new or simplistic perspective on some of my analysis. I also kept most of the transitions from the sentences of my original essay to make my blog post flow. These moves helped me remain true to my academic writing voice and style and when combined with my casual tone, created a well-rounded argument.
Looking Back
Stepping back from my blog post, I clearly see the differences in the essay I submitted weeks ago. It turned from a lengthy, intricate essay to a concise, but insightful post that kept the same fundamental message of the effects of education on inequality.
Ultimately, this assignment challenged me the most in this section of CTW. Since I was uncomfortable with writing casually, the blog post encouraged me to try something different and expand my skills in academic writing. I’ll continue to work on my voice and tone throughout the existence of this blog, but I’m satisfied with what my first attempt has taught me.
Thanks for reading!
P.S. If you’re thinking about starting a blog, check this guide out!