Writing a Scientific Paper - Some Tips

A scientific paper is written to describe the original research results obtained in laboratory, greenhouse and or field studies. A division of the paper into various logical sections and the style of presentation are guided by the journal to which the article is intended. Even so, the paper has a title, abstract/ summary, keywords, introduction, materials and methods, results and discussion and conclusion (take home message). A paper is written with one or more clear messages presented in a convincing manner with the aid of clear evidence in the form of results presented in the tables and or figures. It is a good idea as it helps and even pays to identify the results to be included as tables and or figures in the paper before starting to write the paper. Not all results generated during the study need to be included in the paper. Only those results that make a story need to form a part of the article. All the sections or parts of the paper should be presented in a logical, cohesive and connected manner such that the text matter flows smoothly. The article preferably, should be written in active voice; and the use of jargons and excessive acronyms should be avoided. The paper should be written in a simple language