As a copy editor with experience in SEO, it’s important to understand why contractions are considered informal. Contractions are shortened versions of two words that are combined with an apostrophe. For example, “don’t” is a contraction of “do not” and “it’s” is a contraction of “it is.”

While contractions are commonly used in both spoken and written English, some people may avoid using them in formal writing. This is because contractions are seen as informal and can have a casual tone.

In academic or professional writing, the use of contractions can be seen as unprofessional and may distract from the message the writer is trying to convey. This is why many style guides, such as the Associated Press Stylebook, recommend avoiding contractions in formal writing.

Additionally, contractions may not be appropriate in certain types of writing, such as legal documents or contracts, where precise language is necessary. In these situations, contractions can create ambiguity or confusion.

It’s important to note that the use of contractions depends on the context and tone of the writing. In casual writing, such as social media posts or personal emails, contractions may be perfectly acceptable. In fact, not using contractions in these contexts can make the writing seem stiff or formal.

On the other hand, in formal writing, it’s important to consider the audience and the tone of the piece. If the writing is meant to be persuasive or informative, using contractions may detract from the credibility of the writer and the message being conveyed.

It’s also worth noting that the use of contractions can vary depending on the dialect of English being used. In some dialects, such as American English, contractions are commonly used in both formal and informal writing. In other dialects, such as British English, contractions may be seen as more informal and less appropriate for formal writing.

In conclusion, contractions are considered informal because they have a casual tone and can distract from the message being conveyed. While they may be appropriate in certain contexts, it’s important to consider the audience and tone of the writing before using them in formal writing. As a copy editor with experience in SEO, it’s important to understand the nuances of language and how they can affect the effectiveness of the writing.