TALKING THE TALK

“Can I use text-message slang when I contact my teacher?” In a chat or text message, abbreviations such as u for you may be conventional, but using such shortcuts when communicating with an instructor can be a mistake. At least some of your instructors are likely to view them as disrespectful, unprofessional, or simply sloppy writing. Unless you are working to create a special effect for a special purpose and audience, keep to the conventions of standard English for college writing—and for contacting your instructor.