How do expert writers avoid using "I" when they have to refer to themselves in their article?

Question

How do competent authors, in a refined and perhaps (slightly) formal way, refer to themselves without saying *I*? I've seen the term "this writer" somewhere. How is it with a native? Are there other terms that are a little bit more formal and delicate than *I* is?

Answer 1

In general, it is best to re-word a sentence to avoid using first-person (e.g. I, me) pronouns altogether. Typically, the use of first-person pronouns often indicates bias or opinion, which is frowned upon in most academic articles. That being said, different disciplines have a bit more freedom. For example, often times in Psychology, presenting some of your findings might lead to an analysis based off of your experience running the study. In instances like these, the term "this researcher" or "this writer" can be used to avoid using the pronouns.

Overall, though, try rewording the sentence instead. Usually, the sentence comes out better and more definitive without using personal pronouns. You're no longer "knew-capping" your sentences, as it were.