Let's Talk About Pronouns

One subject that often comes up in college-level composition classes is the correct usage of pronouns. This is not just because pronouns are essential to effective writing, which they are, nor because these stand-in words are any more or less important than other grammatical techniques. Being able to use pronouns correctly not only ensures your writing will be readable and A+-worthy; it also can be a great way to reach out and create dialogue (pun intended) between students that allows everyone a space in which to embrace who they are.

The standard guidance on pronouns, historically, included the single pronouns he/she/it, to be used when writing from a third-person point of view, and they/them/their as the plural counterparts. Today's spectrum of identity requires a bit more nuance. Accepted practice now holds that they/them/their be used in the singular, third-person when referring to someone who self-identifies in a way that is more non-binary.

Just as understanding of the full range of human experience changes, so does the language we use to describe those experiences and each other. Whereas before a simple formula for pronoun usage would suffice, today we know that simple words can cause complex feelings for those who struggle to be seen for who they are. When writing your own papers, emails or other documents, don't assume the pronoun you assign is the correct one. When in doubt, ask, or use names instead of pronouns when writing in third-person.