Often, a research paper will contain information based on your first language. But most of the time, it’s very hard to know if you can use that term in your research paper or not.
There are benefits and drawbacks to using your first language in a research paper, so let’s look at how that works. The answer to this question is yes and no depending on the use.
Can You Use I” in a Research Paper
Yes, you can use the first language like “I” in a research paper if you are writing a personal narrative or you are including a personal experience in a section of the paper. However, using such first and second-person language is discouraged in academic writing because it sounds informal, especially if you are doing a formal academic paper.
However, when writing formal academic writings, using a first language like “I” in a research paper is not a good idea because it may distract readers from the topic and confuse them with grammatical mistakes.
The first language, like “I,” can be used when writing an informal attitude toward something or someone.
You can use the first language like “I” when you want to make a point that does not require a formal tone or sentences.
For example, if you want to say that you are tired after working hard for two days, you can write something like this: “I am tired after working hard for two days. I need some rest now to continue working tomorrow morning!”
How to Avoid using First Language in Essay Writing
1. Know what to write about
You need to have a subject that interests you and will be interesting for others.
This subject must be something you are interested in, so your essay will be based on your own experiences or knowledge.
For example, if you want to write about computers, then find out all about them before starting your essay.
Even if the subject isn’t directly related to computers or technology, there might still be something related that can be used as inspiration for your topic.
2. Don’t assume that you understand what your professor wants
Many times, students will just guess what the professor wants them to do and then try to write an essay in their own words instead of being specific about what they need.
This can be a huge mistake because it makes the essay seem more like a reflection of the student than it does of the professor.
It also makes it harder for readers to understand where you’re coming from and why they should read your essay.
3. Don’t use the first language in every sentence
If you’re confused about how much or little first language should be used in your writing, try reading through some of your previous essays and taking notes on what worked well and what didn’t work so well.
Then write down a plan for how much the first language should be used in future essays so that everyone can see where you’re headed with this new direction for your writing style.
How to Use First Language in Research Papers
When you write a research paper in English, you use third-language writing. First-language writing is what we use the most naturally and automatically. It is written in our native language or the language that was used when we were learning to talk and read.
First-language writing is also known as native writing. We use first-language writing so much because it is easier for us to understand and communicate with others who speak the same language.
We also tend to use first-language writing more often than second- or third-language writing because it is more natural and easier for us to learn how to write that way.
Writing your research paper in English but then translating it into another language is called second-language writing. Second-language writing includes:
- Translating from one language into another, such as translating information from English into Spanish or French.
- Translating from one culture into another.
- Translating from one country into another (such as Arabic translations of English literature).
Instances when using the First Language are allowed
In most academic writings, the third-person is always used. However, it can be avoided when you are writing personal itesms. However, first-person language is allowed in a number of instances. Let us look at them.
1. Narrative Essays
Narrative essays are about experiences, memories and opinions. As with other academic essays, the writer needs to use the first language to aid in expressing their thoughts.
A narrative essay is a piece of writing that tells a story. It uses dialogue and description to vividly depict the subject matter.
Narrative essays are often used in creative writing classes because they require more skill than other types of academic writing.
2. Sharing Personal Experience
Sharing personal experience is allowed if it’s relevant to the discussion. You can use the first language in this context if it makes sense to you and your audience.
If you’re not sure whether your audience will understand what you’re saying, then using the first language might not be the best choice.
One good example is when a German-speaking user posts a question about how to do a French translation for a website in English, and another user asks him to write it down in German instead so that everyone can understand it better.
3. Giving Personal Opinion
When giving a personal opinion, use the first language. This is not only to avoid possible misinterpretation but also because it will help you make better use of your time. If you are writing about something that does not have a first language equivalent, it’s better to use English.
For example, if you want to say “I think that…”, it would be better to use the phrase “I think that…” in English instead of using the Italian word ‘io penso.’
4. To Answer Personal Questions
To answer personal questions, your first language is allowed. It is better to use the same first language as the interviewee to avoid confusion and misunderstandings.
When you are writing a question in English and the interviewee answers in Spanish, it would be better to translate it into Spanish before asking the question. This way, you will better understand what he/she means by his/her answer.
5. Direct Quotes
The quote is from where the speaker’s first language is used. This implies that the idea’s contents have been expressed in his native language and can be understood by the audience without any difficulty. The quote can be directly quoted after putting it in the quote.
