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Successful scientific writing: a step-by-step guide for the biological and medical sciences
Author
Publisher
Cambridge University Press
Publication Date
2014.
Language
English
Description
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Table of Contents
From the Book - Fourth edition.
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
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
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
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 togetherthen send it off!
Understand the process of editorial review
Tips for international publication
Thirty exercises to improve anyone's scientific writing skills.
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More Details
Contributors
Matthews, Robert W.,1942- author
ISBN
9781107691933
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