If you’re asking yourself, “Can you use contractions in college essays?” — you’re not alone. Many students face this question while writing personal statements, scholarship essays, or academic assignments. Contractions (like don’t, isn’t, you’re, and we’ve) are a natural part of everyday language, but do they belong in formal academic writing?
Let’s break it down.
Table of Contents
Understanding What Contractions Are
Contractions are shortened versions of two words joined together with an apostrophe. For example:
- Do not becomes don’t
- They are becomes they’re
- I have becomes I’ve
They make writing sound more conversational and informal — which is exactly why their use in college essays is a gray area.
The Type of Essay Matters
Whether or not you should use contractions in a college essay depends largely on the type of essay you’re writing:
1. Personal Statements or Admissions Essays
Yes, you can use contractions.
College application essays are meant to sound like you — a real person. You want to convey authenticity and relatability. Using contractions in this context makes your writing sound more natural and conversational, which is often encouraged by admissions officers.
✅ Tip: Don’t overdo it. Use contractions selectively to keep your tone friendly yet professional.
2. Academic Essays and Research Papers
Generally, no, you shouldn’t use contractions.
In formal academic writing, contractions are often viewed as too casual. Whether you’re writing a literary analysis, scientific report, or argumentative paper, it’s best to stick with the full forms (cannot instead of can’t, does not instead of doesn’t).
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Style Guides and Professor Expectations
Different colleges and departments follow different writing styles (APA, MLA, Chicago, etc.). While some allow contractions in moderation, others advise against them entirely.
- APA Style (American Psychological Association): Generally discourages contractions in formal writing.
- MLA Style (Modern Language Association): Leans more traditional — full forms preferred.
- Chicago Manual of Style: Allows contractions depending on the tone and context.
📌 Pro Tip: When in doubt, ask your professor or check the course syllabus. It’s better to clarify than assume.
Pros and Cons of Using Contractions in College Essays
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Makes writing sound more natural | Can come across as informal |
| Helps with flow and readability | May be marked down in formal academic writing |
| Engages the reader (especially in personal essays) | Could violate specific style guides |
How to Decide Whether to Use Contractions
Here’s a quick checklist:
- ✅ Is the essay personal or narrative in nature?
- ✅ Do contractions improve the flow or tone?
- ❌ Is this for a formal academic assignment or research paper?
- ❌ Has your instructor advised against contractions?
If the first two are true and the second two are not — go ahead and use contractions in moderation.
FAQ: Can You Use Contractions in College Essays?
1. Are contractions considered unprofessional in college essays?
Contractions aren’t necessarily unprofessional, but they can make your writing feel too informal in highly academic or research-heavy essays. Always consider the assignment guidelines and audience before using them.
2. Can I use contractions in my personal statement or college application essay?
Yes, contractions are completely acceptable—and often encouraged—in personal statements and application essays. They help your writing sound natural and conversational, which admissions officers appreciate.
3. Do college professors allow contractions in essays?
It depends on the professor and the type of essay. In most formal academic writing (research papers, argumentative essays), contractions are discouraged. But for reflective or narrative essays, they are usually fine.
4. What are examples of contractions in essays?
Examples include:
- Don’t instead of do not
- It’s instead of it is
- They’re instead of they are
These are acceptable in informal writing, but consider your tone and audience before using them in academic work.
5. Will using contractions lower my essay grade?
Not usually—unless your instructor specifically asks for formal language only. Using a few contractions won’t ruin your grade, but overusing them in formal essays might affect how polished your writing appears.
6. Where can I get help editing my college essays?
If you want expert feedback on grammar, tone, and structure, MyAssignmentHelp offers affordable and professional essay editing services. They can help ensure your contractions—and everything else—fit the assignment requirements.
Final Thoughts
So, can you use contractions in college essays? The answer is: it depends.
If you’re writing a personal or admissions essay, contractions are usually acceptable and can enhance your writing’s tone. However, for formal academic essays, it’s safer to avoid them unless your professor or style guide says otherwise.
As with any writing choice, clarity and consistency are key. Be intentional, and make sure your tone aligns with the purpose of your essay.
Need help fine-tuning your essay for tone and grammar? Visit MyAssignmentHelp — your go-to resource for essay support and writing expertise.
Key Takeaways
- Use contractions in personal and admissions essays for a conversational tone.
- Avoid contractions in formal academic writing unless otherwise specified.
- Check with your professor or style guide if unsure.
- Contractions should support clarity — never confuse or weaken your message.
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