As a copy editor, it`s important to pay attention to the language used in the content you`re editing. One common issue that arises is the use of “should have” and its contracted form, “should`ve.” But when is it appropriate to use the contracted form and when should you stick with the full “should have” phrase?
First, let`s define the difference between the two. “Should have” is used to indicate that something should have happened in the past but did not. For example, “I should have studied for the test” implies that you did not study for the test. “Should`ve” is simply a contraction of “should have” and has the same meaning.
In terms of SEO, both “should have” and “should`ve” can be used interchangeably without any negative impact on rankings or visibility. However, it`s important to consider the tone and style of the content when deciding which to use.
For formal writing or professional settings, it`s typically best to use the full “should have” phrase. This shows that the writer is taking the time to properly construct their sentences and present their ideas in a clear and concise manner.
On the other hand, the contracted form “should`ve” can be used in more casual or conversational writing. This can give the content a more relaxed and relatable tone, which may be appropriate for certain types of content such as blog posts or social media updates.
Another consideration when using the contracted form is readability. “Should`ve” is only two syllables, compared to the three syllables in “should have.” This means that using the contracted form can help make sentences flow more smoothly and quickly, which can improve the overall readability of the content.
In conclusion, both “should have” and “should`ve” can be used in SEO content without any negative impact on rankings or visibility. However, it`s important to consider the tone and style of the content when deciding which to use. Formal writing should typically use the full “should have” phrase, while the contracted form “should`ve” can be used in more casual or conversational writing. Ultimately, the goal is to create content that is clear, concise, and easy to read, regardless of which form is used.