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REMEMBERING YOUR AUDIENCE
A.
Try using the first person point of view: "I," "me," "we," "us"
Example: It has been found experimentally that genetically altered
strawberries are frost-resistant.
Switch to: In this experiment, we found that genetically altered
strawberries are frost-resistant.
THINGS TO CONSIDER:
B.

First person gives a personality to your writing. It creates a sense of self and is often
the most natural and relaxed point of view to use.

It often allows for more lively and more direct expression than using an anonymous
third person voice.

May not be appropriate for all kinds of writing (newspapers, science writing, etc.);
note the conventions of your field.

It is sometimes possible to create the same effect of using "I" by writing your first draft
using this pronoun, then editing it out for the final draft.
Avoid sexist language: language that suggests discrimination on the basis of sex.
Example: Every physician must know about his patient's lifestyle in order to insure
diagnoses are accurate.
Switch to: In order to insure that diagnoses are accurate, all physicians should
their patients' lifestyles.
his
know about
Sexist language occurs in several different ways.

Using "he" as a generic pronoun. Ex. A good professor will always let his students know his
grading policies.

Using the word "man" or "men" as a term to refer to a general group of people that could
consists of both men and women. Ex. "All men are created equal."

Using masculine pronouns to refer to professions traditionally associated with men, or
feminine pronouns with professions traditionally associated with women. Ex. Today's babysitter can ask her clients for up to $20 and hour.

Referring to men by last name only or by title, while referring to women by both first and last
name or by their married name. Ex. President Bush vs. Mrs. Thatcher.
How to remedy:

Use generic pronouns in place of gender specific pronouns. Ex. "everyone" instead of "he"

Refer to people by profession or role, rather than gender. Ex. All nurses receive training in
six basic fields.
The Writing Center: Remembering Your Audience
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C.

Use the word "person" or "people" instead of "man" or "woman" whenever possible

If necessary, designate both sexes in your sentence. Ex. his/her or he/she.

Choose a consistent way to write names, such as using last name only, or title and last name.
Use this method for both males and females in your writing.

Be careful not to stereotype by profession. Ex. Call the nurse to see if he thinks you need an
appointment.
Consider using an appropriate tone to address your audience.
Example: Mr. Smith, your unwillingness to explore the alternative on
this issue leads me to believe that you are not fully aware of all the
variables concerned. The following is a brief list of factors I don't think
you have considered.
Switch to: Mr. Smith, as I am sure you will want to make the most
informed choice possible, I have reviewed the various factors in this issue.
The following is a copy of this list.
THINGS TO CONSIDER:

Writing is communication between PEOPLE. Consider how your word choice may
affect your reader's attitude toward you or your subject.

Be aware that some readers may react negatively to certain buzzwords, such as
"traditional family values" or words that reflect a certain ideology, such as "politically
correct." Use these words carefully.

Most academic writing takes a formal tone towards the topic.
rd
This material has been adapted from Maxine Hairston’s Successful Writing. 3 ed. New York: 1992.
The Writing Center: Remembering Your Audience