When writing a research paper, essay, or any type of formal writing, brackets are commonly used to provide additional detail or support an argument. Writers utilize brackets to indicate when they are adding extra information that readers need to be aware of in order to understand the text. A writer might use a bracketed section of text to explain a concept or provide a source citation. By using brackets, writers can add clarity to their writing and help the reader comprehend their points more clearly.

Brackets are also used in research papers to provide further detail on a point that has already been made. Typically, brackets are used to provide a reference to an authority or source material that is relevant to the argument being discussed. For example, if the writer is discussing a legal principle, they might include a citation to a court decision within brackets. This type of citation will help the reader better understand the point that the writer is trying to make.

Additionally, brackets can be used to add additional information to a sentence. Sometimes writers will need to add clarification or additional explanation to a point, and brackets are the perfect tool for this purpose. They allow the writer to clarify a sentence without disrupting the flow of the argument. For example, if a writer is discussing a particular type of law, they might say “[This type of law] is often used to protect consumers from fraud and exploitation”. The additional information provided within the brackets gives more detail to the statement and allows the reader to comprehend the writer’s point more easily.

Finally, brackets are also used by writers to show when they are providing their own opinion or interpretation of a statement. For instance, if the writer is discussing a particular statute, they might add their own opinion of what it means within brackets. This is a great way for writers to provide additional context and support their arguments with evidence. For example, if the writer is discussing a particular statute they might say “[This statute is intended to protect consumers from fraud and exploitation]” to show that this is their own interpretation of the statute.

Overall, brackets are a powerful tool for writers of formal writing. By using brackets, writers can provide additional detail, support their arguments with evidence, and add their own comments and opinions. Brackets are an essential tool for all writers and should be used in research papers and essays whenever the need arises.