EAP Academic Writing Conventions

Question 1

Which of the following best describes 'hedging language' in academic writing?

Accepted Answer

Using cautious language to indicate uncertainty or limitations

Answer

Using exaggerated claims to persuade readers

Answer

Using informal expressions to connect with the audience

Answer

Using passive voice to avoid responsibility

Question 2

Which sentence uses an appropriate formal register for academic writing?

Accepted Answer

The data indicate that the initial hypothesis was not supported.

Answer

The experiment was kind of a failure.

Answer

The results show that the hypothesis was wrong, obviously.

Answer

We totally messed up the first trial.

Question 3

In academic writing, what is the primary purpose of a topic sentence?

Accepted Answer

To state the main idea of a paragraph

Answer

To introduce a new argument in the conclusion

Answer

To summarize the entire essay

Answer

To provide a counter-argument

Question 4

Which of the following is an example of nominalization?

Accepted Answer

The investigation of the problem was conducted by researchers.

Answer

The researchers investigated the problem.

Answer

Researchers looked into the problem carefully.

Answer

The problem was looked at by the research team.

Question 5

What does 'coherence' mean in the context of academic writing?

Accepted Answer

Having ideas logically connected and flowing smoothly

Answer

Using complex sentence structures throughout

Answer

Repeating key terms in every paragraph

Answer

Writing long paragraphs with detailed examples

Question 6

Which transition word best signals a contrast in academic writing?

Accepted Answer

However

Answer

Furthermore

Answer

Therefore

Answer

Additionally