06/02/2017
Pro Tip: When you are making a direct point in an essay, whether it is a fact or an opionion, state it directly!
Imagine if Einstein had published the theory of relativity and told the world that E could equal MC2! Does that make it sound like he was certain?
I see lots of people using modal verbs like could and should in their essays. These words often, but not always, take the certainty out of a sentence, so here is some advice to help you out.
Could
"It could be said that" "This could demonstrate that..."
This is just like saying "it might not be said that..." and "this might demonstrate that..."
Could it, or does it? Be direct! Instead, use "It can be said that..." and "This demonstrates that..."
(Remember though, could expresses the past of can. So in the 19th Century it could be said that Victoria was the UK's longest serving monarch, but it can't be said now!
Alternatively, you might say "On the one hand it could be argued that....However, on the other hand it could be argued that...)
Should
"This essay should highlight...."
It is supposed to, but is it going to?
Instead, use "This essay highlights..." or "This essay will highlight..."
Remember, if your essay is not certain then the reader can't be certain of what you think!
