Y250: Contractions? Forum

[abcde12345]

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[WhiteyCakes]

Whatever is correct in Microsoft Word I would imagine

[ph14]

Can I use contractions in my 250? Or is this "cheating" the word count?

Don't use contractions in professional writing. Edit your piece to fit under 250 words without any contractions.

[voytek]

Can I use contractions in my 250? Or is this "cheating" the word count?

Don't use contractions in professional writing. Edit your piece to fit under 250 words without any contractions.

+1. Using contractions to game the word limit at the expense of style mightn't be a good idea.

[Rock4321]

I used contractions in my Yale 250-- I don't think it's a problem. The essay is more akin to a creative writing assignment than a formal piece, so I think you'd be fine taking some liberties with the rules of academic writing.

[ph14]

I used contractions in my Yale 250-- I don't think it's a problem. The essay is more akin to a creative writing assignment than a formal piece, so I think you'd be fine taking some liberties with the rules of academic writing.

It's not a huge issue. But that doesn't mean you should do it.

[spicyyoda17]

It depends on the content and style of the 250.

If it's an academic 250 with a formal tone, do not use contractions. This will read like an essay/book and won't present any problems.

If you take a more personal approach, contractions are fine. This will read more like a conversation and will be okay so long as you don't confuse being personal with being unprofessional.

In sum, whichever style/tone best fits the content of the 250 should determine the use, if any, of contractions.

[abcde12345]

. Thanks everyone.