Communicating Tone

What is Tone?

Tone refers to the attitude or emotion that the writer conveys through their choice of words, sentence structure, and overall style. When writing nonfiction, establishing a tone is especially important as it helps to convey your perspective and stance on the message effectively.

Why is Tone Important in Nonfiction Writing?

1. Conveys the Message: The tone can help in conveying the author's message more effectively. For example, a serious and formal tone in an academic paper can lend the piece credibility and authority, while a conversational tone in a blog post can make it more accessible and relatable to the reader.

2. Engages the Reader: A well-chosen tone can make the writing more compelling and relatable, which in turn, keeps the reader interested and invested in the piece.

3. Reflects the Author’s Attitude: The tone can give the reader insight into the author’s attitude towards the subject. This can help the reader better understand the author’s perspective and intentions.

How to Establish a Consistent Tone

1. Identify the Purpose: Determine the purpose of your writing. Are you trying to inform, persuade, entertain, or explain something to your audience?

2. Know Your Audience: Consider who your audience is. What is their age, education level, culture, etc.? This will help you choose a tone that is appropriate and relatable to them.

3. Choose Your Words Carefully: Pay attention to the words you choose. For example, using formal language and technical terms can create a formal and authoritative tone, while using slang and colloquial expressions can create an informal and conversational tone.

4. Pay Attention to Sentence Structure: The structure of your sentences can also affect the tone. For example, short, choppy sentences can create a sense of urgency, while long, complex sentences can create a more formal and sophisticated tone.

5. Be Consistent: Once you have established a tone, it is important to maintain it throughout your piece. Inconsistent tone can confuse the reader and weaken your message.

Have a Go!