Q&A for How to Write in Third Person

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How do you know when to write in first or third person?

Alicia Cook
Professional Writer
Alicia Cook is a Professional Writer based in Newark, New Jersey. With over 12 years of experience, Alicia specializes in poetry and uses her platform to advocate for families affected by addiction and to fight for breaking the stigma against addiction and mental illness. She holds a BA in English and Journalism from Georgian Court University and an MBA from Saint Peter’s University. Alicia is a bestselling poet with Andrews McMeel Publishing and her work has been featured in numerous media outlets including the NY Post, CNN, USA Today, the HuffPost, the LA Times, American Songwriter Magazine, and Bustle. She was named by Teen Vogue as one of the 10 social media poets to know and her poetry mixtape, “Stuff I’ve Been Feeling Lately” was a finalist in the 2016 Goodreads Choice Awards.

Alicia Cook

Professional Writer

Expert Answer

You might write in third person if you want to further remove yourself from the work so people reading don't confuse the main character for you. It's a way to create boundaries, and it also allows you to create different voices and characters.

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Question

Can I move from third person to first person in different sections?

Community Answer

Teachers don't encourage such a format, but as long as it's done well stylistically, editors are interested in any exceptional story.

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Can I write a narration of my life journey in the 3rd person?

Community Answer

Sure, just use your name instead of ''I'' or "me".

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How do you write an opinion paragraph in third person?

Community Answer

For a third person paragraph, use a name or he, she, or it instead of using I. Since this paragraph is about your own opinion, use your own name (for example, Joe spoke) or he, she, or it (for example, He spoke).

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How do I write in second person?

Community Answer

Use "you" instead of "I." Like you're referencing your reader.

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Are third person point of views necessary for these types of research essays?

Community Answer

It is advisable to write research papers in third person POV. Only use first person in research papers if you want to use personal examples to support claims made in the paper.

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