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The tone, structure, and content of a scientific article determine how readers perceive a researcher’s arguments and purpose for writing. Using the right tone and structure can make arguments more compelling and improve the paper’s overall impact. Furthermore, this can improve comprehension and help maintain the integrity of a research article.
In order to select the appropriate tone and structure for the different parts of your paper, it is essential to first establish your purpose for writing them. This involves clarifying the specific goals or objectives you aim to achieve with those sections of the paper. For instance, your goal may be to enhance knowledge in a particular subject, evaluate the strength of evidence for a finding, or challenge a common notion in your field of research.
In this blog post, we will discuss strategies for determining the right tone and structure of different sections of your paper, with three common types of paragraphs as examples, and explore the effect that different types of tone, structure, and content have on readers. Let’s find out!
Cautious choice of words: As a general rule, avoid using words indicating broad generalizations, such as “always” or “never”, unless you have enough evidence to back up your argument¹. It is best not to use emotional or offensive language in scientific writing, such as “loathe” or “worst.”
Focus on the audience: Tailor your arguments to suit the expertise, expectations, and demographics of your target audience. Consider the prior knowledge of your readers, avoid replicating or completely refuting the consensus view, and consider audience characteristics like location and culture to improve the effectiveness and relevance of your writing.
Progress with time: Preferably use formal language throughout your writing but follow the current language conventions. For example, avoid using archaic terms such as “forthwith.”
Now, let’s take a look at some common types of paragraphs in academic papers as examples and how to write them using proper tone and structure.
A summary paragraph involves condensing a significant amount of information into a concise yet thorough overview, which is essential for readers to grasp the main points effectively and offer a more comprehensive viewpoint or merge findings from diverse studies to bolster a broader argument². This approach can be used to present background information in the introduction section.
The focus of the summary should be solely on presenting facts accurately without injecting personal opinions or biases. By emphasizing this aspect, the summary maintains its credibility and ensures that the core message of the original content is conveyed accurately to the audience.
Example:
Trends in climate change indicate a noticeable increase in extreme weather events worldwide, such as hurricanes, droughts, and flooding. With the continuous escalation of greenhouse gas emissions, governmental initiatives aimed at mitigating these extreme weather events are experiencing reduced effectiveness. This underscores the pressing need for more robust strategies to address the escalating challenges posed by climate change.
An analysis paragraph helps explain how different studies or parts of studies are related². These paragraphs can highlight differences or agreements between data, methods, or findings. Unlike a summary paragraph that gives a general overview, analysis paragraphs break down large chunks of information into smaller parts to enhance the depth and credibility of the analysis.
The analysis paragraph must use a rational and explanatory tone and provide interpretations based on facts.
Example:
Analyzing studies on climate change’s impact on biodiversity reveals a nuanced relationship. Certain sources emphasize adverse impacts on species diversity and ecosystems, while others underscore adaptive responses among species. Methodological differences contribute to diverse findings; nonetheless, all recognize climate change as a key biodiversity driver. This impartial analysis provides a thorough perspective on climate change’s multifaceted influence on biodiversity.
An evaluation paragraph offers an individual’s take on the legitimacy of a piece of information or data². Such a paragraph could be used to reassess a study’s findings in light of new evidence or reevaluate the strength of arguments made in a paper.
This kind of paragraph is usually found when proposing an alternative hypothesis that is in conflict with previous research or justifying current findings that do not match with findings of previous studies. It is important to use a polite and diplomatic tone without discounting the effort and legitimacy of the previous piece of information.
Example:
Previous studies have implicated the lack of government support as a significant factor in the struggle of small-scale farmers in region Y. Contrary to this belief, a recent study conducted by Zhang et al. (2023) found that government subsidies for agricultural initiatives have been instrumental in enhancing the resilience of small-scale farmers in region Y, enabling them to adapt to changing environmental and market conditions effectively.
Finding the perfect tone, structure, and content for your paper is crucial to ensuring your arguments resonate effectively with readers. Over time, working on these aspects of your scientific writing can not only enhance your chance of success during publication review, but also contribute to the wider dissemination and citation of your paper.
However, for researchers who are not native English speakers, skillfully grasping the nuances of tone can be challenging. In addition to accumulating knowledge and experience over time, seeking help from professional language polishing agencies to improve their paper would be more efficient.
Professional editors at Elsevier Language Services are experts in refining and polishing manuscripts to make them more appealing to readers. They work diligently to ensure your arguments are clear and impactful, enhancing the overall quality of your work. Reach out to Elsevier Language Services to learn about our services.
References
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