The importance of “I” in Academic Writing

In “I Need You to Say I” Kate McKinney Maddalena explains how students have been taught to avoid using I and referring to themself in academic writing for several reasons. This is done to prevent us from using it improperly, or even ruining the credibility of an argument being made. For example, in a paper where you are responding to a prompt that is asking you to back a claim, or analyze a topic your personal opinion or experience isn’t relevant in that situation. If the writing prompt is objective, and working towards a specific goal that has been stated then I isn’t needed. You also don’t want to throw in I where you don’t need because it can get confusing. If I were explaining defending a claim with evidence from researchers, then added my own opinion it can be confusing and harmful to my actual argument for the reader. As long as you use it appropriately it can be beneficial to your argument. You should use it when clarifying a point you made, or making a divide between you and another the scholars claims you are supporting or disproving. You should also use it when the assignment asks your personal position or for a narrative, and if you are asked to summarize and respond. Avoid using it one time randomly in your writing, and if you are writing a simple summary on a given topic.

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