Authoritative language cutting out the "seems like" fluff language

Authoritative language Authoritative language implies confidence and knowledge from the author so readers are less likely to question the writing's intention or level of accuracy. Authoritative Language: word choice, tone, and phrasing that makes authoritative and declarative statements. Avoids words such as "seems like" and "I think" or order to clearly state the author's point.   An important language expectation for academic writing. Goes unspoken in most non-English composition courses.

How to be authoritative Because academic writing usually asks you to do one or more of the following:  be the "expert" make a point and prove it correct or valid provide information so readers can make a qualitied/educated decision about your topic propose a reason why readers should change their minds or change their actions Know what you're talking about.  Assume readers have less knowledge about your topic, so provide enough example and explanation to make your point. Cut out the "fluff."

Commonly Used "fluff" words Seems / seems like Almost / almost like Sort of / kind of Maybe Might Could / could be I think / People think Just Really Very Even More of a

With and without fluff With fluff language. Without fluff language. It seems like social media is where most people might be getting all their local, national, and global news.  Retweeting without reading an article is kind of like buying a pair of jeans without just trying them on first.  I think it is really wrong to bully someone through social media, and society needs to just accept all of our differences.  Social media is where most people are getting all their local, national, and global news.  Retweeting without reading an article is like buying a pair of jeans without trying them on first.  It is wrong to bully someone through social media, and society needs to accept all our differences. 

With and without authority Feels uncertain Feels authoritative and declarative It seems like social media is where most people might be getting all their local, national, and global news.  Retweeting without reading an article is kind of like buying a pair of jeans without just trying them on first.  I think it's really wrong to bully someone through social media, and society needs to just accept all of our differences.  Social media is where most people are getting all their local, national, and global news.  Retweeting without reading an article is like buying a pair of jeans without trying them on first.  It's wrong to bully someone through social media, and society needs to accept all our differences. 

For essay 4 (and beyond): Educate yourself about your topic: read one or two articles and reference that knowledge in your essay. Rely on your knowledge. Use authoritative, declarative statements to write your opinion/point. Cut out the "fluff."