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Prof:Rui Alves Dept Ciencies Mediques Basiques, 1st Floor, Room 1.08 Website:

 How to Write Scientific Papers  Research papers

When you do your experiments, think of the Figures in the paper. Organize the gels/photographs/etc. appropriately Collect all data before you start writing Collect the references before hand

ONLY PRACTICE MAKES PERFECTION!!!

CAREFULLY READ FORMATING INSTRUCTIONS!!!!!

Be sure that you write your paper in the clearest possible way: Co-authors Filter Teacher Filter

Writing clearly is difficult Writing clearly in short form and still be precise and providing all necessary information is (difficult) Trick: Write long and then make it shorter. 10

Abstract Introduction Methods Results Discussion & Conclusion Acknowledgements Bibliography

Divide it into three parts: What is the problem you are addressing and why? How do you address the problem? What results do you find and what do you conclude from them?

Abstract Introduction Methods Results Discussion & Conclusion Acknowledgements Bibliography

Divide it into three parts: What is the problem you are addressing and why? How did you address the problem? What results do you find and what do you conclude from them?

Divide it into three parts: What is the problem you are addressing and why? What is the relevant previous research that led to the question/observation you are addressing/describing? Divided into organized paragraphs Cite original sources rather than reviews

Divide it into three parts: How did you address the problem? Describe the research and experiments you did very broadly

Divide it into three parts: What is the problem you are addressing and why? How did you address the problem? What results do you find and what do you conclude from them? Describe the results and their implications in a swoop

Abstract Introduction Methods Results Discussion & Conclusion Acknowledgements Bibliography

Divide this section into as many parts as different types of methods you used & add a description of the materials: Use subheading (less than three types)!!!! Ideally ANYONE with access to the same equipment should be able to reproduce your experiments from this description ( you are allowed to send them to the methods sections of earlier papers or supplementary materials )!

Abstract Introduction Methods Results Discussion & Conclusion Acknowledgements Bibliography

Organize this section is such a way that your story is increasingly strengthened by the way you describe your results Divide this section into as many sections as you need: Use subheading (less than three types)!!!!

Abstract Introduction Methods Results Discussion & Conclusion Acknowledgements Bibliography

First paragraph: a summary of your results and conclusions After that: Discuss the relevance of your results, how they (dis)agree with previous results and what doors do they open. A figure contextualizing the change in knowledge prompted by your work is a good idea Conclude with predictions for the futures without wild speculation

Abstract Introduction Methods Results Discussion & Conclusion Acknowledgements Bibliography

Acknowledge contributions by people other than co-authors. Include REFEREES!!!!!

Abstract Introduction Methods Results Discussion & Conclusion Acknowledgements Bibliography

Read journal instructions Use automatic bibliography generator (Endnote, refworks, …)

Abstract Introduction Methods Results Discussion & Conclusion Acknowledgements Bibliography

Make sure that they are organized as required by the journal Make sure they are in the right order. The text must cite Figure 1 first, then figure 2, etc… Include titles for figures and tables

Read instructions over and over and over again… Write with a positive attitude Use automatic bibliography generator (Endnote, refworks, …) Keep a consistent tense of the verb Use paragraphs wisely

DON’T USE THE PASSIVE VOICE NEVER USE SENTENCES THAT TAKE UP MORE THAN TWO LINES OF YOUR WORD DOCUMENT AVOID REPETITION OF WORDS AND IDEAS AVOID COMPLEX WAYS OF SAYING SIMPLE THINGS

Rechek everything again!!!! Be prepared to rewrite everything Read the paper in print Include cover letter.

PRATICE, PRACTICE, PRACTICE!!!!