Is it formal to put "doesn't" instead of "does not" in an essay?

Question

here's my sentence:

Hurston doesn’t put much emphasis on the physical description of Delia, but more through Delia’s actions and the choices she makes.

should I use does not instead?

Answer 1

I think does not is the more formal term, actually.

It is older english, and less commonly used than doesn't

Answer 2

Does not - formal

Doesn't - informal

As you need to be consistent within a document which you use will depend on the rest of your document.

Example:

Either - I'd like to if she doesn't mind and we can't be late.

Or - I would like to if she does not mind and we cannot be late.