Writing in English
Hướng dẫn các bạn kỹ năng viết tiếng anh giúp các bạn học tiếng anh tốt hơn
Leonardo da Vinci programme
European Commission
Writing in English
A Practical Handbook for Scientific and Technical
Writers
A Pilot Project
Project Partners
Zuzana Svobodova, Technical University Brno, Czech Republic
Heidrun Katzorke and Ursula Jaekel, Technische Universität, Chemnitz, Germany
Stefania Dugovicova and Mike Scoggin, Comenius University, Bratislava, Slovakia
Peter Treacher, ELT Centre, University of Essex, England
Writing in English
A Practical Handbook for Scientific and Technical Writers
CONTENTS
Page No. Page No.
Foreword
1 Types of Writing 4 Language functions
1.1 Scientific Articles 1 4.1 Agreeing and Disagreeing 35
1.2 Research Papers 2 4.2 Classifying 36
1.3 Proposals 3 4.3 Comparing and Contrasting 37
4.4 Defining 39
2 Composition 4.5 Emphasising 41
2.1 Titles 5 4.6 Generalising 43
2.2 Planning your Writing 6 4.7 Paraphrasing 45
2.3 Paragraph Writing 7 4.8 Quoting 47
2.4 Introductions 9
2.5 Writing the Main Body 12 5 Grammar
2.6 Conclusions 14 5.1 Adverbs 51
2.7 Sections of a Research 5.2 Articles 53
Paper 17
5.3 Numbers 56
2.8 Describing Tables and
5.4 Passive Voice 56
Graphs 18
5.5 Punctuation 58
2.9 Referencing 19
5.6 Verb Tenses 62
2.10 Plagiarism 21
5.7 Word Order 65
2.11 Abstracts 21
2.12 Summary Writing 24
6 Words
3 Style
6.1 Abbreviations 67
3.1 Objectivity 27
6.2 Prefixes 68
3.2 Clarity 28
6.3 Suffixes 70
3.3 Formality 29
3.4 Hedging 29
3.5 Signposting 31
Foreword
No science stands alone. If research done, findings found, conclusions drawn are
not presented to the world then it is arguable whether they are of any real use at
all. The reason for the research paper is to present the findings to the world, to
share the information learned for others to do with it what they will. Why the
research was originally conducted is of interest, but the researcher’s intentions,
goals and conclusions are not the end.
For example, a zoologist’s published observations of the chemical means of trail
marking by ants may be read by a biochemist, who in turn researches the make-up
of the chemical. These findings are then read by a chemist who synthesises the
chemical and through that research finds a means of bonding that is both durable,
but removable. Meanwhile a scientist in robotics reads the zoologist’s work and
other possibilities arise. This roboticist creates a robot that can detect and respond
to chemicals applied like paint to the floor, solving the problem of how to guide
and instruct robots on their mail-delivery rounds through an often-changing maze
in an assembly plant. No research stands alone. No researcher can foresee all of
the consequences and ramifications of their work. All science is interdisciplinary.
This is why research results and findings are published.
Since no one knows what impact the research might have, and on whom, the work
must be published in a way that is easily accessible not only for fellow researchers
in the particular field, but to everyone. The work must be presented in an ordered,
conventionally agreed upon way. A research, technical or scientific paper is not
the place for creative or artistic writing, but for the organised, logical, deliberate
dissemination of knowledge. The researcher did the research; the reader should
not have to.
This handbook has been designed to be a reference book and guide for researchers
who have to write up their scientific work in English and who may need help to
compose and write more clearly and accurately in the language. At present it is
only a pilot version and the final edition will be ready during 2001. Your
comments on the usefulness of this draft will be invaluable to the compilers, who
are:
Zuzana Svobodova, Technical University Brno, Czech Republic
Heidrun Katzorke and Ursula Jaekel, Technische Universität, Chemnitz, Germany
Stefania Dugovicova and Mike Scoggin, Comenius University, Bratislava, Slovakia
Peter Treacher, ELT Centre, University of Essex, England
This project is sponsored and funded by
the European Commission Leonardo da Vinci programme
© 2000 Writing in English Project Group
Types of writing
Chapter 1 TYPES OF WRITING
In this chapter we outline some of the main differences between certain important kinds of
scientific and technical writing. These are
scientific articles
research papers
proposals
1.1 Scientific Articles
Scientific and technical articles and essays are mainly published in journals, magazines and
newspapers. They are normally intended to reach a wider audience than research papers.
Thinking about your audience
How scientific articles are written depends on who the readers are likely to be. A more
scholarly, academic or discipline-specific journal will allow specialised vocabulary, while a
piece in a more popular magazine, for example, will present and explain the data in an
accessible manner for a wider audience. The writer must know what kind of people he or she
is writing for.
The structure of a scientific article
Articles and essays need to be a seamless whole: paragraph flowing into paragraph, ideas
presented smoothly in logical order. Structurally they can be broken down into these three
parts:
The introduction
The main body
The conclusion
Each of these is covered in a section in Chapter 2 on Composition.
Articles and essays need to be well thought out and ordered. How the writer introduces the
piece, builds on the introduction through the body, and concludes will largely determine how
the information is accepted. Step by step, the writer must present main ideas, supporting
evidence, analyses and conclusions in a logical and organised manner. The writing must not
wander, but keep to its task of presenting the writer’s information in the clearest possible
way.
Style Manuals
Every discipline has its own style standard. These Style Manuals are published and readily
available for each field, science and discipline. Writers are responsible for knowing and
following the standard of their own particular discipline.
1
Types of writing
1.2 Research Papers
Research papers are generally written for scientists working in the same field and therefore
have a more limited, and more specialised, readership than articles. Research papers can
appear in specialist journals or be presented at conferences.
The structure of a research paper
A research paper has a more closely defined structure than an article or essay. There are
normally 8 sections in a research paper or scientific report, and these tend to follow each
other in a fixed sequence. Obviously these may vary, depending on the nature of the research
done. Each element is further described and explained in Chapter 2 Composition.
Title
It must precisely describe the report’s contents
Abstract
A brief overview of the report
Introduction
Includes the purpose of the research
States the hypothesis
Gives any necessary background information
Provides a review of pertinent literature
Methods and materials
Provides a description of material, equipment and methods used in the research
Results
States the results of the research. Visual materials are included here.
Discussion
Evaluation and interpretation
Was the hypothesis supported? If so, how? If not, why not? Relevant results
are cited in support.
Conclusion
Conclusions to be drawn from the results
Conclusions about the hypothesis
Implications of the research and results
Additional research proposed
References cited
A list of the references cited
Include references to any works cited in the review of literature in the introduction.
Use the documentation style required by your specific field. (See Sections 2.9 on
Referencing and 4.8 on Quoting)
2
Types of writing
1.3 Proposals
Proposals may well be the least popular form of writing for researchers but they are
necessary. The purpose of a proposal is to ask for funding in order to make research possible.
As there is only a limited amount of money in the world for research, you need to make the
case for your particular research as effectively as you can.
Purpose of a proposal
A proposal must demonstrate that your research project is worth the time, effort and money to
accomplish it. It must make the need for money and time easily understandable and it must
propose an appropriate recipient for the funding.
A proposal persuades.
A proposal requests.
A proposal promises that the project will be completed.
A proposal states the researcher’s commitment to doing the work.
A proposal presents a detailed plan to accomplish the research.
Components of a proposal
Although there is variation according to the organisation you are applying to, a proposal will
probably consist of these elements.
A cover letter. This is one page long, separate from the main proposal. It introduces:
* the researchers -- you
* the reason for your research – the needs and the problems that the research is to meet.
* the cost of the research
* the length of the research
* the benefits of the research (including to the prospective donors)
A title page. The title page is one sheet of paper. It contains:
* the project title
* the recipient of the proposal, that is, the organisation, and if possible the individual
* the date
* the person or persons submitting the proposal, including signatures
* a contact person (name and title, address, telephone number, and e-mail address)
* the project budget total
* the project time span
A table of contents.
This is only necessary if the proposal is over 15 pages long. It should be on a single page.
A summary
By its very nature this must be written last. It should only be between 150 and 300 words
(2 paragraphs) long, and include points in the cover letter.
3
Types of writing
An introduction. Use the introduction to establish the need for the research and the
credibility of the researchers to do it. Include:
* Background on the need to be addressed by the research
* Background on the researchers and their organisation (including degrees, titles and
achievements)
A needs assessment. This section should answer these questions:
* What is the need motivating the research?
* How is the research expected to meet the need?
* Why should you be the one to do the research? What are your qualifications for it?
Objectives. This section should answer these questions:
* What is the goal of the research?
* What are the expected results?
* What are the expected benefits and applications resulting from the research?
* How do the objectives meet the needs?
Methods. This section should answer these questions:
* How will the research specifically be conducted? Justify the methods proposed.
* What is the time-frame for the research project? Justify the schedule proposed.
Pre-evaluation. This section should answer these questions:
* How will the project be evaluated? Internally or externally?
* What data will be gathered? How will it be gathered?
* What is the expected extended length of the project, beyond the scope of the immediate
proposed funding?
* How will the results be disseminated?
Long-term financial plans. The answers in this section should be specific and detailed.
This section should answer these questions:
* If the project extends beyond the length of the grant, how will it be funded?
* Will the project be able to be wholly or partially self-supporting?
Budget. This section should answer these questions:
* What materials are needed for the project and what will they cost? This must be itemised,
specific and detailed.
Personnel. This section should answer these questions:
* Who will be involved in the research, and why? (Be specific)
* What specifically are the duties and responsibilities of the researchers involved?
Appendices. Each appendix should be a separate section. Possible appendices include:
* Résumés of the researchers * References
* Board members of applying organisations, or body of researchers
* Charts of the organisation * Letters of support
* Applicable charts, graphs and tables * Applicable bibliographies
4
Composition
Chapter 2 COMPOSITION
2.1 Titles
The purpose of a piece of scientific writing is to present information clearly and concisely so that it
can be easily understood. Clarity therefore begins with the title.
In scientific and technical writing, a poetic or stylized title does not help the reader at all. For
example, the following title
The Kopje Drummers of the Karoo
does not tell the reader that the paper is about birds, woodpeckers to be exact. However, this title
The mating rituals of Geocolaptes olivaceus, South Africa’s Ground Woodpecker
tells the reader very clearly what the subject of the paper is.
Elements in a title
In technical and scientific writing the title is a precise description of the contents. It should include
specific words to indicate the following:
the topic, that is, the main, general subject you are writing about
the focus, that is, a detailed narrowing down of the topic into the particular, limited area of your
research
optionally, for a scientific article, the purpose of your writing. This means including a word such
as the following, which tells the reader what kind of argumentation to expect:
An analysis of … An assessment of … A comparison of … A description of …
A discussion of … An evaluation of … An explanation of … An outline of …
Some sample titles:
purpose topic focus
An analysis of carp culture management as a tool for Mexican crayfish conservation.
An overview of nutritional needs before, during and after an endurance event.
A discussion of genetic engineering technology and its effects on the environment.
An evaluation of sewage treatment as a tool in environmental protection.
Punctuation of titles: capital letters
• It is clearer to type your title in lower case rather than in capital letters.
• Use capital letters for the first letter of all the main words in the title, including nouns,
pronouns, verbs, adjectives, adverbs, longer prepositions, conjunctions
• Do not use capital letters for short structural words (except when they are the first word of the
title), such as articles (a, an, the), short prepositions (of, in, to ,at), co-ordinating
conjunctions (and, or, nor, but, for)
Points to check in your own writing
Be precise and concise; strive for clarity and avoid terms with multiple meanings which might
lead to misunderstanding
Use key words from the paper to inform readers of the content, but try not to choose too many
technical words as this will not attract a wider audience
Titles stand alone; they are not a part of the opening sentence or paragraph
5
Composition
2.2 Planning your Writing
A primary tool for a writer is making a plan or outline before starting to write. Planning enables you
to:
organise your thoughts efficiently
decide on the most effective way to present your information.
keep to a logical sequence of points and not wander off on a tangent
remember all the information that must be included
cut out unnecessary or irrelevant bits
Of course a plan can be changed. Writing is an exploratory process and as the piece is being written
and assembled the outline can be amended to take account of additional points or to change emphasis.
A plan is simply a tool to ease the writer's task: it should remind you of what to do, not dictate to you.
Different kinds of plans
A simple plan. Only the main points are jotted down in an order that best serves the argument
and information sharing of the paper.
A complete plan. Below the main points of the simple plan, you can list more specific points.
Generally you do not have to be over-specific, but this is a way of making sure that the detailed
points you want to make are not forgotten.
A question plan. In these you write down the questions that you are trying to answer at each
stage of your work. This form helps you to understand the reader’s position and may help focus
the plan and organize your strategy.
A sentence plan. A simple sentence summarising the main point of each paragraph and section.
These give you direction, and can sometimes form the first or 'topic' sentences of your paragraphs.
Putting your ideas in order
Written work must be ordered. Though information and ideas may come to you randomly, it
is your job as a writer to clarify and structure your data and present it in a sane, sensible and
logical fashion. Here are some points to think about when planning, selecting and sequencing
your material:
Have a goal, a main idea and intent. Every idea, sentence and paragraph must lead
towards that goal effectively. Stick to the matter at hand; omit anything that does not lead
towards the goal, no matter how interesting.
Have a reason for ordering your paper as you do, and then convince the reader of your
argument by developing it smoothly and logically.
Each idea and concept (with its substantiation) should flow logically from one to the next.
Different ways of ordering your material
chronological or Step by step. Points are made one after another in the order of
sequential occurrence.
from simple to complex Used when proving an assertion made in the introduction. Each step
builds on the one before, from the obvious to the complicated, building
the reader’s understanding gradually. It builds naturally to a climax in
the conclusion.
from complex to simple Used when urging the reader to apply a solution to a problem. It states
the problem, and then begins to direct towards a specific solution.
from general to specific Used when contrasting and comparing, from similarity to difference.
from specific to general Used when contrasting and comparing, from difference to similarity.
6
Composition
Layout of a sample plan
In a typical layout, a combination of numerals and letters are organised in a hierarchy. For example:
Roman numerals (I, II, III, IV, V ...), signifying main points
capital letters (A, B, C, D …)
Arabic numerals (1, 2, 3, 4 …)
lower case letters (a, b, c, d, …)
numerals in parentheses ( (1), (2), (3), (4) …)
lower case letters in parentheses ( (a), (b), (c), (d)…)
In the text each lower level is indented further.
I first main point
A part of I
1 part of I.A
a part of I.A.1
(1) part of I.A.1.a
(a) part of I.A.1.a.(1)
(b) part of I.A.1.a.(1)
(2) part of I.A.1.a
(a) part of I.A.1.a.(2)
b part of I.A.1
(1) part of I.A.1.b
2 part of I.A
a part of I.A.2
B part of I
1 part of I.B
II second main point
The plan continues …
2.3 Paragraph Writing
Paragraphs are the essential building blocks of your writing. They mark the flow of your
argument, with each paragraph focusing on one main idea and a cluster of connected
sentences to expound upon and amplify it. Your argument progresses by moving from the
main idea in one paragraph to the main idea in the next. Paragraphs also provide the reader
with visual help in following your argument as they appear as separate blocks of text on the
printed page.
Length of a paragraph
• There is no ideal length that can apply to all paragraphs since length depends largely on
the content. However, as a general guide, it is helpful to the reader to keep most of your
paragraphs to between seven and fourteen lines in length (say, between three and six or
seven sentences).
• Occasionally paragraphs can be shorter than this (where a point needs to be made briefly
or with special emphasis) or longer (where more detailed elaboration of a point is
needed).
• For the reader, too many short paragraphs make your writing too bitty, while too many
long ones makes it rather heavy and difficult to follow.
Number of ideas in a paragraph
There is normally only one main idea in each paragraph and this is expressed in a topic
sentence. The other sentences support and expand on the idea in the topic sentence in
different ways. The last sentence can often be important too, as it can be used to summarise
the gist of the paragraph.
7
Composition
Placing the main idea in the paragraph
The ‘topic sentence’ is usually the first sentence in the paragraph, though it can be the second
(when the first is used as a kind of introduction). You can test this by ‘skimming’ an article
quickly, just reading the first sentences of each paragraph, and seeing if you can follow the
overall development of the argument. Normally, you can.
Structure of a paragraph
There is no single pattern that will apply to all paragraphs. Following the topic sentence, the
other sentences can have a variety of functions, e.g.:
• clarifying or re-stating the main idea
• explaining the idea
• qualifying the main point in some way
• providing examples
• giving supporting evidence
• commenting on the main idea.
There is also some linking, either stated or implied, with the previous and the following
paragraphs.
Sample paragraph
The following paragraph can be analysed to show its structure and the functions of the 8
sentences. (The numbers are inserted only to identify the sentences)
(1) The Ultra Long Duration Balloon is a super-pressure, or “closed” balloon, which is not
vented to the atmosphere like conventional balloons. (2) Usually fabricated from stronger
materials such as polyester, super-pressure balloons are inflated like their zero-pressure
counterparts and then sealed. (3) Once a super-pressure balloon reaches the desired
altitude, the sun’s heat forces the internal pressure to rise until it exceeds the outside
ambient pressure. (4) As a result, the differential pressure between the inside and the
outside increases. (5) At night when the gas cools, the differential pressure drops, but if
enough gas has been put into the balloon the differential cannot drop below zero. (6) In this
way, the balloon remains full and at a stable altitude without having to drop ballast. (7) So
long as the balloon remains impervious to helium or hydrogen molecules, it can stay aloft.
(8) Accordingly, super-pressure balloons can be used for flights of far greater duration than
zero-pressure systems.
I. Steve Smith, Jnr. & James A. Cutts “Floating in Space” Scientific American Vol 281 No 5 November 1999
Analysis
* (1) is the topic sentence – contrasting the Ultra Long Duration Balloon with conventional
ones
* (2) - (7) explain how the ULDB works. (2) describes the special features of its
construction. (3) and (4) explain how it operates in the air, with (5) adding what happens
at night. (6) and (7) summarise its operation.
* (8) provides an overall conclusion – the ULDB can stay in the air longer than
conventional balloons
8
Composition
Points to check in your own writing
Here are some simple tasks for you to see if you are constructing paragraphs properly.
Take one or two pages of your academic writing. Do a ‘visual’ check on the length of
paragraphs – does the text look too heavy or too ‘bitty’ or about right?
Check whether the average length of the paragraphs is between 7 and 14 lines (3 to 7
sentences)
Count the number of words in randomly selected sentences. Does the average number of
words come to between 15 and 25? If so, this is about right.
Do the ‘skim’ test: read through the first sentences only of your whole text and see if you
can follow the gist of your argument. If you can, you are writing your topic sentences
well.
2.4 Introductions
This section covers two forms of introductions:
introduction to an article
introduction to a research paper
Introductions to articles
The introduction does more than tell the reader what the subject of the paper or article is,
though obviously it must do that. It must also capture the reader's attention at the beginning,
or they will never continue to the end. A good introduction gets the reader wanting more.
Points to include in an introduction
In the introduction to an article you present your topic in general, then narrow the focus on
the topic and make a clear thesis statement. Your thesis statement expresses the central idea
of your paper. Everything else you write flows from this and depends on it. The thesis
statement needs to be clear, and concisely and precisely stated.
Topic, Topic Sentence, Thesis, Hypothesis
These terms are all often associated with introductory paragraphs. They are different and not all are
found in every type of paper.
Topic
It is the subject of the paper. Chemistry or Amino Acids, Biology or Aquatic Invertebrates
could all be topics.
Topic sentence
It states the topic of the paragraph; in an introduction it states the topic of the paper. It is
generally at the beginning of a paragraph.
Thesis
A proposition phrased in a thesis statement. In the thesis statement the whole of what the
writer is arguing is said in one clear and concise sentence.
Hypothesis
A conjecture, a tentative or working theory, proposition or explanation used as a premise for
reasoning, argument or investigation.
**A hypothesis proved false is as important as one proved true.**
9
Composition
Sample introduction to an article
The Use of Hemp in Reprocessed Paper Manufacture
As recycling paper becomes more common throughout the world, new uses for the reprocessed
product are increasing. Paper bags and cardboard boxes, the pages of the latest best-selling
paperback, disposable cups, paper towels and toilet paper all use recycled paper with varied
effectiveness. The paper bags tear easier than those made of virgin paper. The paperbacks begin to
crumble in a few short years, the paper towels break down quickly into mush and the paper cups leak
before the coffee has even had a chance to cool. It is the nature of recycled paper. In the recycling
process the waste paper is broken down and reformed. A result of the process is that the new paper
has shorter fibres and is more brittle, with less tensile strength than the original paper.
Finding ways of adding strength to the recycled product, thereby making it a more usable and
reliable material, has given rise to a whole research industry. Scientists are exploring changes to the
recycling processes hoping to do less damage to the fibers. Additives to the paper are being tried at
different stages of manufacturing with mixed results. The adding of non-recyclable materials to the
papers does make them stronger, but defeats the purpose.
Finding suitable materials that meet the structural, recyclable and cost effective requirements are
driving more and more researches to marijuana. No, not to smoke but for the fibres found in the
marijuana plants. Marijuana, or Hemp (Cannabis sativa), fibres are proving to be one of the most
promising recyclable additives. Papers with hemp fibres added in the pulp stage are proving to be
stronger and more durable than those made of recycled paper alone. Hemp is the solution for the
paper industry, certainly to the structure problems of recycled papers.
Analysis of the introduction
The introduction presents the topic Recycled Paper by stating very general information that most
readers are already aware of.
The topic is narrowed down to a particular problem with recycled paper: its lack of structural
strength.
This is then further narrowed down to a thesis statement, saying that hemp is the solution to the
problem.
Note that the writer suggests that hemp may perhaps have something more to offer the paper
industry than just its strength
Note how the writer goes beyond the basic information in order to capture the reader’s attention
by planting a hook. Here the hook was Marijuana. A hook causes the reader to pause and pay
attention, here to find out what marijuana has to do with recycled paper. The writer goes on to
explain that it is a specific product of the hemp plant, fibre, that is a solution to the problem of
weak and brittle recycled paper.
Introductions to research papers
Introductions to scientific research papers differ from those in articles in certain respects:
In papers, the introduction is direct and to the point. It is therefore somewhat shorter than
in an article, maybe only one paragraph long.
In some papers, the introduction is actually a named section of the paper. It follows the
title, and in this case it is itself entitled 'Introduction'.
It may have additional paragraphs containing a review of the literature and any pertinent
background information. Even though it is a section, you should still be brief.
Although you need to capture the reader's interest as in an article introduction, you should
avoid anecdotes and illustrations. You need to
* tell the reader what the paper is about
* say what the paper contains and says
* explain why what it says is important and worth reading
10
Composition
Points to be covered in the introduction to a research paper
The introduction to a research paper should involve the reader by answering these questions:
What was your reason for doing the research? What in general was the research attempting to
find out?
What was your hypothesis or thesis? What specifically was the research attempting to prove?
What background information is pertinent to an understanding of the paper?
What literature is pertinent? What other studies have explored the subject? (Note that all
literature must be fully documented. See Section 2.10 Referencing)
Example of an introduction to a research paper
As recycling paper becomes more common throughout the world, new uses for the reprocessed
product are increasing. In the recycling process the waste paper is broken down and reformed. A
result of the process is that the new paper has shorter fibres and is more brittle, with less tensile
strength than the original paper. Finding ways of adding strength to the recycled product, therefore
making it a more usable material was the purpose behind this research project.
This passage would then be followed by a thesis statement or by a hypothesis.
A sample thesis statement for this opening would be:
Recycled paper products with added Hemp (Cannabis sativa) fibres are stronger and more durable
than products made of recycled paper alone.
Your thesis statement expresses the central idea of your paper. It is your conclusion, and the
rest of the paper has to prove it through evidence and examples. The thesis statement needs
to be clearly, concisely and precisely stated.
Many research papers propose a hypothesis instead of a thesis statement, especially if
they are presenting research and findings and the conclusions are only tentative. The
hypothesis states succinctly what the research is attempting to prove and this directs the
structure of the experiment.
A hypothesis for the above research might be:
It was hypothesised that the longer fibres of the Hemp plant (Cannabis sativa), when added to the
shorter recycled paper fibres during the manufacturing process, will result in stronger recycled paper
products.
Sample phrases you can use in introductions
Stating your purpose
In this paper, it will be shown that …
In this paper, … will be discussed / are considered.
The present paper examines / presents …
In this article, we report on …
Our / My intention here is to highlight …
In the following pages, we shall propose …
This article will concentrate / focus on the arguments …
The key question that this article will address is whether …
This paper will report on work already carried out in this area.
11
Composition
Relating your paper to current work
In recent years, … has become a topic of lively debate.
The issue of … has become controversial recently.
The question of … has been thoroughly researched over the last few years.
Indicating the structure of your paper
The article has (6) main sections.
Firstly, we shall examine the question of …
The next section briefly outlines …
After a short discussion of …, an overview of … will be given.
This will be followed by …
The final section will present …
I / We shall then go on to suggest …
Points to check in your own writing
In the introduction to an article
Topic – have you made it clear to the reader what the topic of the paper is?
Have you captured the reader’s interest by using a 'hook'?
Thesis statement – does the reader clearly know the thrust of your argument? Is it stated
clearly in one precise sentence?
Does the introduction effectively introduce the rest of the article? If not, rewrite it.
In the introduction to a research paper
Have you stated the topic and the purpose of the research?
Have you expressed your hypothesis or thesis statement clearly, concisely and precisely?
Have you eliminated everything, such as anecdotes and illustrations, not specifically to
do with the topic.
Have you given enough background information or reviewed all the pertinent literature?
Have you expressed everything as succinctly and briefly as you can?
Finally, after finishing the whole paper, review your introduction. Is it in the right style
and tone for the rest of the paper?
2.5 Writing the Main Body
This section deals primarily with scientific and technical articles, though much of what is
written applies to the introduction, discussion and conclusions sections of a research paper.
Types of articles
There are three main kinds of articles and essays. The writer needs to know which type best
serves his or her purpose.
Informational or Expository
This type of writing focuses on presenting information, not to persuade but to inform the
reader. There should be a minimum of bias. Though the writer is not presenting an
argument, the paper still must have a goal: the effective sharing of information.
12
Composition
Explanatory
This type of writing not only presents information, but also provides an explanation or
rationale for it. This too should have little or no bias as the goal is to help the reader
understand data better.
Argumentative or Persuasive
In this type of writing, the writer does have a viewpoint and is trying to persuade the
reader to agree with it. The arguments are planned and thought out logically, in a
sequence designed to bring the reader to the writer’s conclusion.
Coherence in your writing
The paper must be a whole. Each sentence should follow on logically from the previous
one and lead into the next one, as does each paragraph, idea, concept, argument and
example, on to the conclusion.
For each section, decide what the function of your writing is at that particular stage.
Refer to the sections in Chapter 4 Language Functions for suggested words and phrases
to help you in your writing.
You should not include anything that does not directly contribute to your goal.
Fascinating but unrelated bits of information must be omitted. Illustrations, examples or
interesting anecdotes that are not directly relevant must be edited out. They do not add
interest; they sidetrack the reader away from what you are trying to achieve.
Use 'linking' language to help the reader see what connects one point of the argument to
another. (see Section 3.5 Signposting)
Maintain the same style of writing throughout. This includes maintaining the same level
of formality. If you decide to change your tone while actually doing the writing, then go
back over what you have already written to make sure that the whole piece has the same
tone. (see Chapter 3 Style)
Use of illustrations
In an essay or article there are generally fewer charts, graphs, tables and other graphics.
They are used only if they are the best way of conveying the information.
In an essay or article, artwork and photographs are more commonly used than in a
research paper.
In an essay or article most illustration is verbal. While they generally have no place in a
research paper, in an essay or article stories and anecdotes may be used to hook the
reader, maintain interest, and illustrate by example an argument, concept or idea.
Drafting and re-drafting
Remember that you should write, rewrite and rewrite again.
A first writing is not good enough. It must be improved.
A second writing will expose the most obvious errors.
A third polishes. Better words, clearer thoughts and more apt illustrations will present
themselves to the writer.
If possible, do a fourth.
If possible, between drafts leave the piece. It is amazing what time will expose in even the
most perfect prose.
13
Composition
Points to check when writing or re-drafting an article
Is your thesis statement clear and understandable?
Are the tone and vocabulary suitable for the intended audience?
Consider only the first and last paragraphs. Can the reader understand the gist of the
whole by reading just these two paragraphs? Does the final paragraph merely restate the
first paragraph? If it does, rewrite it.
Have you used the right arguments, language and style to persuade the reader to agree
with you?
Have you expressed yourself exactly and precisely? This is of ultimate importance in
scientific writing.
Have you checked for grammatical accuracy, e.g. consistent verb tenses, use of articles?
Have you checked your spelling?
Have you followed the appropriate Style Manual?
2.6 Conclusions
This section covers the following two forms of conclusions:
the conclusion to an article
the conclusions to a scientific and a technical paper
Article conclusions
A good introduction encourages the reader to read on; it sets the tone for the article but it may
fade in the reader’s memory. What is remembered, on the other hand, is the conclusion. The
conclusion should be an anchor in the reader’s mind, a place where the whole of the essay is
attached; a weak ending soon loses its hold and the essay is forgotten.
The last paragraph is a conclusion, an ending, not just a stopping. It should not simply be a
repetition of the introduction, but should take account of all that has been developed in the
main body. However, it is also not just a summary of your main points; it is the ending, so
you should add something extra, something to 'complete' the work, to round it off.
Points to include in a conclusion
What you may include in your conclusion
* a summary of your main points, but written in a different way, so that the reader can
get a different perspective on them
* your evaluation of the topic - this may be a restatement of your introduction, or
modified in light of the evidence
* an amplification or extension of your thesis statement, logically following on from
your main points in the body
* your proposed solution to the problem you have discussed
* a reconciliation between two opposing points of view
* suggestions for further investigations into the topic or issue
14
Composition
What you should not include in your conclusion
* the presentation of your thesis statement
* completely new evidence or points in support of your thesis statement
* the start of a new topic
* anything which requires a detailed exposition
* an opposing argument which puts into question or undermines your own
Example of a conclusion
Refer back to the sample introduction in Section 2.4 on the subject of
The Use of Hemp in Reprocessed Paper Manufacture
After the introduction, the body of the paper presents arguments for the use of hemp:
The recycling process and the structure of the hemp plant are briefly explained.
It is said that comparatively fewer natural and human resources are used to grow hemp
rather than a tree to produce the same amount of fibre.
Other paper additives are discussed and shown to be less acceptable and cost effective
than hemp.
Hemp is offered as an alternative to wood-based papers altogether.
Other uses of hemp are briefly mentioned, pointing out that the plant is more than a
solution to a single problem.
Sample conclusion
Society tends to view certain topics through narrow lenses and from one viewpoint, as either
black or white, good or evil – but the viewpoints and attitudes change. In the recent past, hemp was
primarily considered a fibre for use in ropes and fabrics, but with the rise of the counter-culture of the
mid-twentieth century and its focus on drugs, the lowly source of fibre, hemp, became the infamous
marijuana, pot, dope. It was stigmatized, outlawed and vilified, forced into hiding. Today that attitude
bears re-evaluation.
Apart from the medicinal qualities of marijuana, its other practical applications surely warrant a
second look at the plant and the controversy surrounding it. Today, new varieties of hemp are
available which are easily and quickly grown and resource-stingy but do not have enough THC
(tetrahydrocannabinol) to have any narcotic or intoxicating effects, yet society still fearfully turns its
back on one of the least expensive, most versatile natural fibres available.
As societies seek ways to protect the forests and the environment as a whole, abandoning such a
useful and environmentally friendly raw material as hemp seems particularly shortsighted. Still, this is
not the first, and doubtless not the last, time that society has turned its back on the potential benefits
of something because it has already acquired a bad name.
Points to note
The conclusion is mainly a comment on what the paper has said, drawing conclusions.
After devoting the paper to supporting and promoting the qualities of hemp, the author briefly and
effectively deals with the opposition to the plant.
The author then finishes with a last appeal that pointedly leaves the readers to re-evaluate their
attitudes about hemp.
15
Composition
Research paper conclusions
In a research paper 'Conclusions' is a separate section, as is the Introduction. It is clearly labelled
Conclusions, and follows the sections Methods and Materials, Results, and Discussion.
In most ways the Conclusion section of a research paper is easier to write than that of an essay or
article. It must contain four straightforward elements:
Conclusions about the hypothesis posed in the introduction
Did the hypothesis prove to be correct or incorrect? How? Why? How may the problem be re-
hypothesized?
Results of the research – and their theoretical implications
What did the research actually reveal? What was observed? Not only what do the findings indicate
about the research done, but also what broader aspects might they reveal and explain?
Possible hypotheses raised by the results
What questions do the results raise? What possible answers or explanations can be hypothesised?
Specific lines of additional research raised by the results
At each step of the research new questions arose; how might they be answered or explained?
How these conclusions are presented depends on the research done and the demands of the Style sheet
for the particular field.
Sample phrases you can use in conclusions
Summarising what you have done
In conclusion, we can say that …
In this paper, we have seen that …
This research paper has clearly shown that …
The discussion in this article has given an overview of …
This paper has provided a systematic study of …
From the research that has been carried out, we can conclude that …
The aim of the present paper was to examine whether … and this has now been achieved.
Finally, it is worth pointing out that …
Indicating the limitations of your own work
This article has only been able to touch on the most general features of …
Even a preliminary study, such as the one reported here, has highlighted the need for …
Looking to the future and further research
Clearly, further studies are needed to understand / prove …
In order to validate the work we have carried out, a more in-depth investigation into … is needed.
The results of this research could assist policy makers to …
Points to check in your own writing
Can the reader understand the gist of your paper by reading only the introduction and the
conclusion? If not, re-write them.
Have you merely re-stated what you said in the introduction? If so, think how you might
present it somewhat differently in the light of the supporting evidence in the main body.
Do you conclude with an emphatic finish? Do you leave the reader with a strong
impression?
16
Composition
2.7 Sections of a Research Paper
Between the Introduction and the Conclusion, the main body of a research paper normally
consists of these three sections:
Methods and Materials
In this section the researcher cites all the specifics of the work done. Every detail needs
to be included. The reason that this section must be completely documented is so that
other researchers can duplicate the studies and hopefully duplicate the findings.
Variables matter and need to be detailed. The failure to list pertinent particulars will
throw all of the research and conclusions into question.
Methods and Materials answers the following questions:
Where? Location of the work, if relevant.
What? What equipment and other materials were used in the research. They need to be
thoroughly specified.
How? The procedures and methods used in the research. Every detail should be
included.
Results
This section follows Methods and Materials.
In this section you present the precise data and findings from the research, often using
visuals to provide the information.
Data may be effectively presented in charts, tables, graphs, diagrams and photographs.
These should be accompanied by explanatory text to highlight and interpret significant
facts. See Section 2.8 Describing Tables and Graphs for examples of appropriate
language to use.
Discussion
This section follows Results.
In this section you write about your interpretation of your findings and your evaluation of
the research.
In particular, you give your opinion as to whether the work supported and proved your
hypothesis, or whether it did not.
You can also explore
* the success or failure of various research methods
* how the studies might have been done differently to investigate the problem better
Questions to be answered in the Discussion section
Did the research support the hypothesis? If not, why not? (Be specific, cite examples)
What interpretations can be made from the results? (Be specific, cite evidence)
Were the research methods adequate? If not, why not? (Be specific, cite evidence)
How could the research be done differently to cross check the findings? (Be specific)
17
