Grammar Rule

Informal Language

Using slang, contractions, or spoken language in academic writing.

The Rule

Avoid: kids, gonna, wanna, a lot of, don't, can't. Use: children, going to, want to, many/much, do not, cannot.

Examples

Incorrect

Kids shouldn't eat junk food.

Correct

Children SHOULD NOT consume unhealthy food.

💡 Pro Tip

Contractions (like can't or isn't) are strictly prohibited in formal academic essays like IELTS Task 2.