Science Writing Tips

Say it simply

Our job as science communicators is to explain complex topics in simple and concise language. People's attention spans are short—so get to the point quickly and explain complex information so that understanding is effortless. Do the work so readers don't have to.

• Avoid the passive voice. This voice is common in scientific writing. It is much less interesting to read than the active voice, which is simpler and more direct. Instead of "It was discovered that ..." it is better to say "We discovered that ..."

• Use short sentences and paragraphs. Three to four line sentences should be cut in two. After each sentence ask, "Can I write this sentence using fewer words?"

• Don't repeat the same word or phrase. Varying your sentence structure and language will make your writing sound more natural and interesting. Find a new word with this visual synonym tool. 

• Read your writing out loud. Check the rhythm, find awkward or repeated words and phrases within and between sentences and paragraphs.

Tips for keeping your language specific

Avoid filler words that are vague and meaningless. "To be" verbs are among the most common. If you write these words or phrases, ask yourself if they can be replaced with more specific language:

• • Is ("it is" or "there is")

  • Am

  • Have

  • Has

  • Are

  • Was ("it was")

  • Were

  • Be

  • Being

  • Been ("there has been")

  • Review this list of words to avoid. 

EXAMPLE 1: Original sentence, “Reservoir levels are now too low to reliably run hydropower, and there have been short-term water conservation efforts.” Revise to, “Reservoir levels are now too low to reliably run hydropower, prompting short-term water conservation efforts.” 

EXAMPLE 2: Don't begin sentences with "There is/are--results." Original sentence, "There are on average over 13,000 lightning strikes in interior Alaska each summer." Revise to, "On average over 13,000 lightning strikes occur in Interior Alaska each summer."