The Writer's Toolkit: Tone

Formal vs. Informal - Finding Your Voice

What is Tone?

In writing, tone is the author's attitude toward the subject and the audience. It's conveyed through word choice (diction), sentence structure (syntax), and overall style. Just as you would change your tone of voice when speaking to your principal versus your best friend, a good writer must adapt their tone to suit their purpose and audience. The two most common tones are formal and informal. Mastering the difference is essential for effective communication in any context.

Formal vs. Informal Tone

Formal Tone 🧐

Purpose: To inform, persuade, or present a serious argument. Used in academic essays, official reports, and professional emails.

Uses complex sentences.
Avoids slang and contractions (e.g., "do not" instead of "don't").
Maintains an objective, third-person perspective (avoids "I" or "you").
Features precise, technical vocabulary.

Informal Tone 😎

Purpose: To entertain, connect personally, or express excitement. Used in friendly emails, blog posts, social media, and creative stories.

Uses simpler, shorter sentences.
May include slang, contractions, and colloquialisms.
Often uses a first-person ("I") or second-person ("you") perspective.
Features everyday, conversational language.

Deconstruction & Application

1. Deconstruction: Read the two sentences below. Which one has a formal tone and which has an informal tone? Explain your reasoning.

A) "It's a pretty big deal that the research showed the new medicine works."

B) "The research findings indicate that the new medication is highly effective."

2. Application: Rewrite the following informal sentence into a formal one. Focus on changing the word choice and sentence structure.

"I reckon we should get on with the project soon or we're gonna run out of time."

3. (Critical Thinking) Imagine you are writing an email to your local MP to persuade them to fund a new skatepark. Which tone would be more effective? Why?