Understanding Why Informal Writing Conventions Struggle to Become Formal Standards

Writing conventions are the building blocks of effective communication in various fields and contexts. While formal writing conventions are widely accepted and standardized, informal writing conventions often struggle to be adopted as real standards. This article explores the reasons behind this phenomenon and discusses the challenges and opportunities that come with the dynamic nature of language and communication.

The Nature of Language and Communication

Language and communication are inherently fluid and evolving. Informal writing conventions, such as colloquial expressions, regional slang, and contemporary trends, reflect the ever-changing nature of spoken language. These conventions often adapt to contemporary trends and can vary by region or community, making them highly dynamic and context-specific. However, to become formalized standards, a writing convention must exhibit certain qualities such as clarity, consistency, and universality.

Adapting to Time and Universality

For a writing convention to become widely accepted, it must endure the test of time and adapt to evolving standards and needs. This is a significant challenge, as language and communication trends can change rapidly. For example, the use of emojis and memes in social media has become increasingly prevalent, but it may take years for these conventions to be fully accepted in formal writing contexts. Additionally, regional slang can make a writing convention unintelligible to a broader audience, limiting its applicability.

The Balance Between Inclusivity and Clarity

Formal writing conventions prioritize clarity and universality to ensure that the information is accessible and understandable to a wide range of readers. Balancing inclusivity with these principles can be challenging, especially when it comes to preserving personal or cultural nuances. Informal writing conventions often capture these nuances, but formalizing them can dilute or lose these unique characteristics. As a result, informal writing conventions may not always seamlessly transition into widely accepted formal standards.

Cambridge Publishing's Experience with Self-Publishing

Self-publishing can be a challenging but rewarding endeavor. Having published over 200 books on Amazon and running 120 million Amazon ads, Cambridge Publishing has honed the process. The key to success lies in breaking down the steps into manageable, bite-sized chunks. This approach ensures that even those new to self-publishing can navigate the process with ease.

Breaking Down the Self-Publishing Process

Cambridge Publishing offers a free self-publishing secrets checklist that outlines the essential steps. These include:

Identifying your target audience and genre Developing a compelling and unique title Writing a convincing and informative summary Choosing the right cover design Editing and proofreading your manuscript Formatting your book for publication Listing your book on Amazon and other platforms Marketing and promoting your book

By following these steps, aspiring authors can create a structured and efficient self-publishing process, increasing their chances of success in the competitive self-publishing industry.

Genres and Specific Conventions

It is crucial to understand the specific conventions required for different genres of writing. For instance, journalistic conventions would be inappropriate for comedy writing, just as writing technical instructions would not benefit from the conventions of a fiction story. A skilled editor might ask for clarity regarding the intended application of a writing convention. Understanding the nuances of different genres can help authors choose the most appropriate and effective writing style.

By considering the evolving nature of language, the challenges of balancing inclusivity and clarity, and the specific conventions required for different genres, authors and writers can navigate the complex landscape of writing conventions more effectively. This understanding not only enhances their ability to communicate effectively but also respects and values the diversity of voices in the writing world.

Remember, whether you are self-publishing or seeking formal publication, breaking down the process and understanding the conventions of your chosen genre are key to success.