Expressing & Modifying Levels of Certainty
In academic writing, it is very important to be able to express different levels of certainty accurately. For example, if you want to make a claim on the evidence of your results or argumentation, you need to adjust the level of certainty of your claim to the level of support that you can show.
The topics below review, in turn, the ways to increase or decrease the level certainty/confidence of your writing.
© AWH 2025
Modals of Probability
Modals of Probability
The core modal verbs used in academic writing are: can and could; may and might; shall and should; will and would. Each pair is the present tense form, and the second is the past tense form.
Hedging
Hedging
Hedging is a type of language use which 'protects' your claims. Using language with a suitable amount of caution can protect your claims from being easily dismissed.
Signals of Confidence
Signals of Confidence
Academic writing does not only use hedging. On the other side of the spectrum are a set of vocabulary that transmits certainty or confidence.
Explore the Academic Writing Hub
This resource includes an introduction to academic writing, three thematic areas offering different perspectives on writing practice, and support from a dedicated academic writing chatbot.
Academic Writing Hub
The Academic Writing Hub provides Oxford students with tailored support in assignments, structure, and writing skills. Engage with resources directly or use Penrose, the 24/7 chatbot, to navigate and develop your academic writing.Academic Writing: Tasks
This section introduces the types of academic writing students are expected to complete, such as assignments, exercises, and research projects.Key Language Issues
This section explores grammar, clarity, cohesion, and paragraphing: core language issues that affect academic writing quality.