Perspective matters: How to write in the first, second or third person

Whether you write in the first, second or third person affects the reader’s perception of your subject matter - and few things are more confusing than switching around in the same paragraph.

But many people are confused about when to use 1st person (I/we), the 2nd person (you) or the 3rd person (he/she/it/they) in their writing, so here are some tips to bear in mind.

First person is best used to indicate personal experience or opinion, while second works best to instruct or address the reader. Third person generalises an experience or situation, and is the one most commonly used in writing.

If you’re getting your people confused, or just your words in a jumble, come and talk to us - we’ve got some experts who can put the words right in your mouth.