How to Rewrite Informal to Formal Text

Torewrite informal to formaltext, you need to find a suitable replacement for the informal words. The second step is to change the sentence structure or punctuation.

While informal writing is used for writing to friends or family, formal writing is required for professional emails, cover letters, or academic documents. This article discusses the two types of writing to help you understand their characteristics and appropriate usage.

Why Should You Rewrite Informal to Formal Text?

Informal writing is great for texting or conversation with family and friends. However, we often need to polish things up when composing a business email, cover letter, or academic application.

When you write an informal text such as a casual email, your text reads more like how you are speaking. But if you want to make it formal, such as in a business email, you need to change your tone. In general, the change from informal to formal text gives the reader a better idea of the author’s intended meaning.

Conversion From Informal to Formal Language

Informal writing styles tend to be more interactive, provocative, and conversational. However, a formal approach frequently uses more expository, background, and technical language. Consider the factors below to rewrite informal to formal text efficiently.

1. Vocabulary Choice

You must adjust the vocabulary and choice of words based on the formality of the written task.

Informal: I am sorry for submitting the work late.

Formal: I apologize for the delay in submission.

2. Avoid Contractions

Refrain from using contractions in formal writing because they are used for a more casual and conversational style. Make sure to avoid contractions when writing negative sentences.

Informal: The presentation slides for the meeting aren’t ready yet.

Formal: The presentation slides for the meeting are not ready yet.

3. Use of Pronouns

Formal writing is usually impersonal and concise. Therefore, it’s best to avoid using personal pronouns. In formal writing, use passive voice or adverb clauses to replace personal pronouns.

Informal: As you go through the report, please let me know of any errors.

Formal: When you review the report, inform me of any discrepancies.

Informal: I believe there is a positive correlation between the factors.

Formal: It is believed that there is a positive correlation between the factors.

Difference Between Informal and Formal Writing

Informal language is used in regular conversations. This is how we communicate with our friends and families via text, email, or letters. Informal language could include slang and colloquialisms. Some online blog posts are also written in an informal and conversational style.

Some of the primary characteristics of Informal Writing are:

• Allows colloquial language and expressions
• A simple structure and straightforward approach
• A personal tone for talking directly to your audience
• Allows contractions and abbreviations
• Involves empathy and emotion

Formal language is needed for professional work. It needs to be grammatically correct with proper spellings and punctuations. This type of writing requires extra care as they are mostly directed toward business and official purposes.

Some of the primary characteristics of Formal Writing are:

• It involves a more complex structure.
• An objective approach.
• Use complete words and avoid contractions.
• Writing in the third person.

To Wrap Up

Many people tend to write in a less formal style, but sometimes this is not the best choice. If you find yourself writing too informally, you should consider rewording your sentence to be more formal. This article will help you rewrite text from informal to a formal tone and understand their difference and usage in the proper context.