In what kind of writing would the use of the word “you” be appropriate? When would it be inappropriate?

Question

One of the most common flaws in writing is the casual use of the pronoun “you.”

Answer 1

In informal writings the use of word "you" would be appropriate, but in formal writings the use of word "you" is inappropriate, and the use of word "I" is also inappropriate.

it is more appropriate to use "one". Instead of going "you should use this" you could write "One should use this"

but in informal writing, or in letters and such, use of "you" would be fine! i hope i anwered what u were asking

Answer 2

You is appropriate when you are addressing another person. In casual writing, it is quite acceptable to use the word 'you' in the same way as it is used orally. But I'm not sure what you mean when you say one of the most common flaws in writing is the casual use of the pronoun 'you'. Could you give an example?

Answer 3

In formal pieces, such as research papers, the use of "you" is inappropriate. Using "you" appropriately is a little more tricky. I recommend just avoiding it in any type of writing other than fictional or when using dialogue. Also, even when writing fictional pieces, it may still be inappropriate. The only pieces I use "you" in are ones in which the paper is directed to the audience (readers). For example, I wrote a fictional piece about a young girl dressing too provocatively and having something bad happen to her. I used "you" in the introduction and conclusion in order to make an impact on the audience.