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Use of pronouns with a clear reference

Pronouns are words like 'they', 'we', 'she', 'it', 'this', 'these' and 'which' – words that refer back to something mentioned in the text. You need to use pronouns in your writing, but still repeat nouns and names when needed if it might be unclear what the pronoun refers to.

Always ensure that a pronoun has a clear reference in the text. In example (1a), look at the pronoun it at the beginning of the third sentence. It is unclear whether the author is referring to the fact that the research is insufficient, or the research itself. The revision in example (1b), without the pronoun it, makes the connection clearer between the two ideas:

Original:

(1a)

For example, images are used for dog behavior modeling [1] and emotion analysis [2]. However, the research in this area is still relatively insufficient. It is challenging because of the lack of datasets of behaviors or emotions on pets compared to humans. 

Improved:

(1b)

For example, images are used for dog behavior modeling [1] and emotion analysis [2]. However, the research in this area is still relatively unexplored, due to the lack of relevant datasets.

A special category of pronouns is relative pronouns, such as 'which', 'that' and 'who' . Relative pronouns help you connect two ideas in a single sentence. Compare example (2a), the first draft, and (2b), an improved version:

Original (unclear this):

(2a)

One part of the thesis consists of implementing an MBS model from scratch. This is because the company is interested in benchmarking a new MBS simulation software.

Improved:

(2b)

One part of the thesis consists of implementing an MBS model from scratch, which will allow the company to benchmark a new MBS simulation software.

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