Writing tips
Basics of good writing
- The importance of revision
- Good writing requires practice and asking for and accepting criticism
- Check out our checklist for grading papers to see what is expected
- Have someone else read your paper
- Read the paper out-loud to yourself to see how it flows
- The importance of reading
- Read alot of good scientific writing to see how its done
- Compare how those papers are written to how your paper is written.
- Readers have a difficult job, be kind to them
- Know your audience. Don't assume they know too much
- Also don't assume they know too little (Don't explain the mechanics of a t test)
- Remind readers of the purpose of different sections
- Grammar & Usage
- Make sure you use correct grammar. Poor grammar will detract from your writing
- Be precise in your word choice. Use technical terms only where they are more precise and make sure you are using them correctly
Bias in language
- Avoid sexist language
- Avoid use of he or she you are actually referring to a he or she.
Each participant provided his verbal SAT score.
All participants provided their verbal SAT scores.
- Avoid sexist assumptions
Doctors often work long hours neglecting their wives and children.
Purpose of APA Style
- Readers are very busy and they don't want to spend alot of time trying to figure out what you are saying or looking for stuff.
- consistency of format allows readers to familiar with the style to quickly identify sections.