When writing a personal narrative, what point of view would be best to use?
• first person
• second person
• third person
• third person omniscient
When writing a personal narrative, the point of view that is typically most effective is the first person point of view. This is because a personal narrative is meant to reflect the author's own experiences and perspective, so using "I" or "we" allows the reader to engage directly with the author's thoughts, feelings, and actions.
To determine the best point of view for any type of writing, it's important to consider the purpose and desired effect of the piece. In this case, the purpose of a personal narrative is to share a personal experience and evoke emotions or connections in the reader. The first person point of view helps establish a personal connection between the reader and the narrator, allowing them to experience the story firsthand.
To choose the best point of view for any writing, consider the following questions:
1. Whose perspective is most important? In a personal narrative, the author's perspective is central, so using the first person point of view ensures that the story is told directly from their viewpoint.
2. What emotions or connections do you want to create in the reader? Using the first person point of view allows readers to empathize with the narrator, as they can relate directly to the experiences and emotions being described.
3. How do you want the story to be perceived? Using the first person point of view in a personal narrative gives a sense of authenticity and credibility, as it is rooted in the writer's own experiences.
While second person, third person, and third person omniscient points of view have their own merits in different types of writing, they are generally less suitable for personal narratives. Second person (using "you") can create a more instructional or directive tone, which may not fit the purpose of a personal narrative. Third person (using "he," "she," or "they") creates a sense of distance between the author and the reader, which can make it harder for readers to connect with the story. Third person omniscient, where the narrator knows the thoughts and feelings of all characters, can be useful in certain types of storytelling, but it does not allow for the same level of personal connection as the first person point of view.
Therefore, to make a personal narrative engaging, relatable, and authentic, it is generally best to use the first person point of view.