This week we covered how to express personal opinions in academic writing. Academic writing can include personal views, but they need to be presented in the right way.
Writing needs to provide enough background information so readers understand what you are talking about. Avoid absolute language such as “completely correct”. Instead, use hedging expressions like “initially” or “to some extent” to show you are not completely committed to a position.
Use other scholars’ views to support your argument. Cite examples or academic sources as evidence, which shows you have engaged with the academic discussion in this field. Use your subjectivity as a starting point for thinking, acknowledging that your views are shaped by personal experience and cultural background.
Finally, show how your views have developed, for example from “I initially thought” to “after further consideration”, allowing readers to see your thinking process.
In short, personal opinion is important in academic writing, but you need to provide background information, support your views with academic research, and show the development of your thinking.