Science writing tip #4: Read with a critical eye

This tip applies to all writers, scientists and non-scientists alike: you should read to improve your own writing. As scientists, we read to add to our understanding of our research fields. However, it is also important to read research articles to understand how they are structured and to recognize the most effective communication strategies.

Why does it matter?

Most original research articles have similar structures. Many journals have adopted the guidelines of the International Committee of Medical Journal Editors or a similar format. When you are preparing your manuscript, it is essential to follow the guidelines described by your target journal; failure to present your work in the correct format can lead to immediate rejection.

If you read to understand not only the content, but the structure or format, of published papers, you can find real, relevant examples of how to structure your work.

You can also become familiar with good strategies for communicating your findings. As you read an increasing number of papers, you may notice trends in the styles of writing that make an article clear and informative.

How to apply this tip

Familiarize yourself with relevant guidelines for preparing a manuscript. This will make it easier to recognize proper or ineffective manuscript organization.

Keep a folder of articles that use effective communication techniques. Annotate the papers or make a separate list of their writing-related characteristics. Do they use short sentences? Do they avoid jargon? Have they used each section of the article to its best advantage and avoided unnecessary repetition?

Join a journal club. Many labs, PhD programs, or institutes have on-going journal clubs. Although it is likely to focus primarily on the scientific merit of the articles discussed, a journal club will ensure that you are actively reading papers and analyzing their content. If you find an article that is difficult to understand, consider how the ideas could have been conveyed more effectively. I found journal club to be intimidating in my early years of graduate school, but frequent discussion improved my skills and confidence. I encourage you to participate even if you are shy, junior in your field, or worried about your language skills.

Do you read for scientific content and writing-related issues? Ask questions or share your experience below!