Define repetition in writing and explain why it is important to avoid repeating words or phrases when you create an academic essay
http://grammar.about.com/od/rs/a/repetitionterm.htm
http://www.usu.edu/markdamen/WritingGuide/07repwrd.htm
http://lisavella.blogspot.com/2007/05/three-tips-to-avoid-repetition-in-your.html
Repetition in writing refers to the act of using the same words, phrases, or ideas multiple times within a piece of writing. While some level of repetition can be effective for emphasis or creating a rhythmic effect in certain forms of literature, it is generally important to avoid excessive repetition, especially in academic essays.
Here's why it is crucial to avoid repeating words or phrases in academic writing:
1. Clarity and flow: Repetition can make your writing redundant and monotonous, making it challenging for readers to follow your argument. By using synonyms or varying your sentence structure, you can maintain the reader's interest and ensure your ideas flow smoothly.
2. Professionalism: Academic essays aim to communicate your ideas in a clear, concise, and professional manner. Repeating words or phrases excessively can give your writing an amateurish or unpolished appearance, which may detract from the credibility of your work.
3. Demonstrating vocabulary and language skills: Academic writing often demands a rich and varied vocabulary. Replacing repeated words with synonyms or finding alternative ways to express your ideas demonstrates your mastery of language and your ability to articulate your thoughts effectively.
4. Engaging the reader: By avoiding repetition, you can keep your readers engaged and interested in your essay. Variety in language and expression can enhance the readability and appeal of your work, increasing the chances of capturing and maintaining the reader's attention.
To avoid repetition in academic essays, consider the following strategies:
1. Thesaurus usage: Consult a thesaurus to find synonyms or related words that convey the same meaning as the term you wish to avoid repeating. However, be cautious that the replacement word effectively conveys your intended message.
2. Pronoun usage: Instead of repeating a noun, you can often substitute it with a pronoun to refer back to the original subject. This method helps to maintain clarity and avoid redundancy.
3. Sentence restructuring: Rearranging sentence structures or rephrasing ideas can create variation and prevent repetitive patterns in your writing.
4. Use transitional phrases: Employing transition words and phrases such as "however," "moreover," or "in addition" can convey relationships between ideas, making them more distinct and avoiding the need for repetition.
By consciously striving to avoid excessive repetition, you can improve the clarity, professionalism, and overall impact of your academic essays.