What should writers avoid in formal writing?

In formal writing, avoiding informal language and personal anecdotes is essential to maintain a professional tone and to communicate ideas clearly and effectively. Informal language often includes colloquialisms, slang, or conversational expressions that may undermine the seriousness of the writing. Additionally, personal anecdotes can detract from the objective stance that formal writing typically requires, as they may introduce subjectivity and bias, making the text less authoritative.

Formal writing prioritizes clarity, precision, and a focus on the topic rather than personal experiences or casual dialogue. This helps to create a more scholarly and reliable piece of writing that can be taken more seriously by the intended audience. Thus, the emphasis is on delivering information in a straightforward manner without the distractions posed by informal expressions and personal stories.