Differences Between German and Anglo-American Essay Styles

Writing an essay is a common academic task throughout the world. No matter where you are, essay writing is an essential part of academics that you can't miss.

Whether you are in the UK, America, or maybe in Germany, essay writing is something that you have to attempt as a student. But of course, the writing styles can differ.

So, if you are a student who is planning to move between the Anglo-American and German education systems, then you had better understand the key differences between these two essay writing styles, as it can make a great difference in your grades.

Luckily, you just landed on the right site. Here we are just about to explore the unique features of both of these styles. So, get ready as it's going to be German vs Anglo-American Essay Styles.

Why Essay Style Matters?

I know you must be wondering why it really matters. You can just write in the way you feel comfortable. But this is not how this works in academics. Just like some key features of a specific culture that we consider as a CULTURAL shock to another one.

Thus, what you might consider great in Germany might feel too stiff in the UK or the USA academics. Similarly, your clear and direct American essay style writing might be considered too informal for German professors.

Therefore, you must understand the key differences as it helps you to:

• Avoid any confusion or misunderstandings
• Writing in the expected writing style
• Grab better grades for you
  But if you are in Germany, you can always reach out to Essay Help Germany to assist you in your academics.

Key Differences Between German And Anglo-American Essay Styles

Now, all of those students who are struggling to understand the basic differences between these two styles. Get ready, as this blog is going to get intense now. And you will find the basic differences between these two writing styles.

Linear Vs. Flexible

The structure of these two essays differs greatly.

German Essays -The German Essays are known to follow a very structured and logical path. We develop each of the key points  very carefully. It avoids jumping ahead and showing conclusions too early. Thus, leading the readers step-by-step to the end to state the final conclusion of the whole essay.

Anglo-American Essays - In contrast to German Essays, these essays are more flexible and write the main thesis point at the start. Then, each of the paragraph keep supporting the main idea clearly. So, it's more direct and easier to follow for the readers. And it follows the simple structure of Intro, main body, and conclusion.

Formal Vs. Engaging Tone

The tone and writing style of your essays matter a lot. And makes a key difference in these two:

German Essays - The German essay writing style is more formal and academic. The students often use long sentences and key technical words to make it more academic. Thus, the writing style is very serious and complex.

Anglo-American Essays - These essays are just the opposite. The Anglo-American essays focus more on clarity rather than complexity and follow a reader-friendly approach. They too follow a formal language but in a natural and simpler manner to make things understandable for readers. The sentences are shorter, and students try to avoid complex words.

Personal Opinions - Yes or No?

This is a big point to differentiate between these two:

German Essays - Well, the German academics are quite cautious about personal opinions and views. Thus, showing your personal opinions in your essays will be considered unprofessional. So, the writers usually present their ideas using passive voice. Then they let the evidence do its job.

Anglo-American Essays - In this style, your opinions are welcome. Thus, you can clearly state your opinions and views openly, especially when you are writing an argumentative or persuasive essay. American or UK professors will always encourage you.

Difference in Paragraphing

Here is how these two styles create paragraphs:

German Essays - These essays encourage writing longer and more complex paragraphs with multiple ideas shared in the same paragraph. The argument unfolds in a slow manner, and we expect the reader to follow the logic step-by-step to reach the final verdict.

Anglo-American Essays - They are completely opposite and strongly condemn long paragraphs. They focus on one idea per paragraph to make it easy to follow for your readers. Paragraphs are always short and focused with one idea.

Sources of Content

German Essays -The German students are expected to use lots of theoretical sources. The key aim of these essays is to show off a deep academic understanding. Thus, quoting classic authors is quite common in these essays. Thus, these essays are inclined towards theory and philosophy.

Anglo-American Essays - They prefer a mix of both theory and practice. The students use theories but back them with real-life examples. The focus is given to clarity, and they prefer a practical thinking approach.

Purpose of the Essay

The purpose of the essay really differs for both of them. Here is how.

German Essays - You know, normally, the purpose of writing an essay in Germany is to explore ideas deeply. There might not always be clear answers to the question. But it is more about showing how well you get a grasp of the topic you are exploring. Thus, they value complexity and open-ended thinking among students.

Anglo-American Essays - In contrast, these essays are normally written with the purpose of arguing a clear point. The writer has to pick up a specific side and argue on its behalf with proper evidence and examples. So, the goal is to inform or convince the readers, as they value clarity and strong arguments more.

I know this might seem too much for starters. So, if it is still confusing you, then just hire an expert Essay Writing Service to get you through.

Final Words

In a nutshell, both of these essay styles have their strengths and weaknesses. German essays are logical, detailed, and written in a formal academic style. Whereas, Anglo-American essays are clear, straight to the point, and engaging as well.

So, if you are writing for a German professor, then take your time to build your arguments in a logical manner while staying formal. But if you are writing for a UK or US professor, then you better stop stretching details and come to the point directly while keeping it engaging.

Hence, understanding these key differences will help you stay on the right track always. Happy Writing!