Machine generated contents note: 1. Start with a plan -- Ask fundamental questions first -- ... Communication format : the message determines the medium -- So, where should this paper be published? -- 2. Conduct a comprehensive literature search -- Adapt to new ways -- Search many information channels -- Keep track of your resources -- 3. Prepare for the challenge -- Take charge of the task -- Manage your message -- Work with (and around) your natural inclinations -- Build momentum and keep it -- 4. Begin well -- Assess whether your research is ready for publication -- Deal early with authorship -- Master the practical mechanics of writing -- 5. Compose the IMRAD core of a strong first draft -- Tackle the Introduction -- Write your recipe : materials, methods, and variants -- Marshal your results -- Develop the Discussion and Conclusions Read More 6. Assemble the rest of the first draft -- Compile a careful and complete reference list -- Generate ... a title and other front matter -- Develop a suitable abstract or summary -- Identify effectual keywords -- Acknowledge the help of others -- Be transparent about potential conflicts -- 7. Compile tables to develop, clarify, and support your story -- Use tables appropriately -- Revise tables thoughtfully -- Watch the details -- Mesh your graphics with your text -- 8. Include figures for evidence, efficiency, or emphasis -- Match figure to function -- Prepare simple, honest figures -- Illustrate relationships with graphs -- Document with photographs and other illustrations -- Develop explanatory artwork when needed -- Employ symbols and notations with care -- Highlight your story with effective figure legends -- 9. Report numbers clearly and responsibly -- Determine how to express numbers in the text -- Handle percentages properly -- Report statistics correctly -- Present probabilities clearly and fairly Read More 10. Revise for coherence -- Start with organization and logic -- Rework for clarity of style -- ... Improve readability -- Condense for brevity -- Recognize when short might be too short -- 11. Improve style and syntax -- Use verb tense rules to show the status of work -- Know when to use active and passive voice -- Check for subject-verb agreement -- Attend to the mischief of multiples -- Watch for strange linkages -- 12. Improve word choice -- Recognize and minimize jargon -- Use bias-free, inclusive language -- Choose the right word -- Energize the verbs -- 13. Attend to punctuation, capitalization, and other mechanics -- Punctuate for clarity -- Capitalize consistently -- Treat scientific names properly -- Be careful with other non-English words and phrases -- 14. Address your ethical and legal responsibilities -- Value ethical concerns -- Ensure against plagiarism -- Adhere to guidelines for human and animal research -- Protect yourself from potential libel and slander charges -- Handle trade names responsibly -- Understand copyright and patents -- Know when and how to request permissions -- Verify that you have addressed all potential concerns Read More 15. Oral presentations : adapt the text and visuals -- Choose your design tools -- Investigate ... electronic alternatives -- Present text effectively -- Adapt and simplify the supporting graphics -- Employ an effective slide presentation style -- 16. Share your story in public : presenting talks and posters -- The human factor -- Murphy was an optimist -- Deliver a successful speech or presentation -- Present a poster, the happy hybrid -- Handle questions with respect and assurance -- 17. Publication : the rest of the story -- Get it all together--then send it off! -- Understand the process of editorial review -- Tips for international publication -- Thirty exercises to improve anyone's scientific writing skills. Read More |