Extemporaneous Writing: Keeping It Professional

The Importance of Language in Extemporaneous Writing

You may think that anyone who can string a few sentences together can pull off extemporaneous writing—think again! When you're on the clock and have mere minutes to craft your thoughts, the type of language you use can make or break your message. So, let’s talk about what to avoid to keep that writing sharp and professional.

Why Does Language Matter?

Just like dressing appropriately for an interview, your word choice in writing shows respect for your audience. Imagine standing up to give a speech or presentation and using phrases like "totally awesome" or "you know what?"—yikes, right? The audience might stop listening, or worse, start giggling. Maintaining a level of professionalism is crucial for effective communication, especially in formal settings such as reports, speeches, or presentations.

Use of Slang and Casual Language

While we all love to kick back with our friends and chat in a relaxed manner, this isn't the time. Slang and overly casual phrases can weaken your argument. They might sound relatable, but think about it: can they translate the seriousness of your topic? If you're discussing healthcare policies or legal issues, casual language just won't cut it. This style often lacks clarity and can be interpreted in multiple ways, leading to misunderstandings. Let’s steer away from those casual vibes for now.

Instead, choose words that help you communicate what you're actually trying to say without fluff or distraction. After all, when you’re trying to impress an audience or a judge, do you really want them to remember your slang or your point?

The Balance: Technical Terminology and Legal Jargon

Now don’t get me wrong—context matters! There are times when legal jargon or technical terms pop into the narrative—especially when the audience is familiar with those terms. If you're presenting to a group of healthcare professionals, using medical terminology might just earn you some bonus points. But, here's the kicker: if you're speaking to a general audience, it’s wise to simplify those terms. Aim for clarity over complexity, and your audience will thank you.

Academic Language Has Its Place

Speaking of complexity, formal academic language has its merits too. In settings that expect rigor and depth in discourse, formal language can elevate your work. However, the danger lies in being overly stiff and losing the essence of your message. You want to find that sweet spot where professionalism meets approachability. Clear, respectful language that respects your audience’s expectations will go a long way.

Conclusion: Strive for Clarity and Respect

At the end of the day, the goal in extemporaneous writing is to convey your message effectively while maintaining a professional demeanor. So, remember to avoid slang and overly casual language. Leave behind the words that could distract from your main point. Instead, aim for clarity and professionalism in your writing. Perhaps even imagine your audience nodding along in agreement with each carefully chosen word. That’s the sweet spot you want to aim for!

You ready to tackle that extemporaneous writing challenge? With a solid grasp of what to avoid, you're one step closer to making your writing shine with professionalism. Let’s get to it!