A Guide to Crafting Shorter, Impactful Sentences in Academic Writing

Using fewer words to convey your research can improve the readability and comprehension of your paper. By splitting information into separate and clear parts, you can give readers the breathing space necessary for them to digest even complex ideas. There is no magical formula to reduce the number of words you are using, though. All you need to do is keep in mind these tips! 

Remove redundant verbs 

Eliminating unnecessary words is a great way to shorten sentences while preserving their central message or idea. Some of the most commonly used redundant words are verbs such as conduct, perform, carry out, undertake, etc¹. 

For example, 

Don’t write: We performed a comprehensive analysis of all datasets from the last decade. 

Instead, write: We comprehensively analyzed all datasets from the last decade. 

Similarly, 

Don’t write: Current scientific consensus supports carrying out the vaccination of adults and children. 

Instead, write: Current scientific consensus supports the vaccinating of adults and children. 

Avoid unnecessary filler words  

When trimming sentences down to size, every word matters. Filler words such as that, of, or up often appear in scientific writing, but are unnecessary². 

For example, 

Don’t write: John et al. suggested that new ways of exchanging currency be explored. 

Instead, write: John et al. suggested exploring new ways of exchanging currency.  

Similarly, 

Don’t write: The metal beams must be hoisted up to the roof, one by one. 

Hoisting itself indicates the movement of something to a higher position. Adding the word up after that is not necessary. 

Instead, write: The metal beams must be hoisted to the roof, one by one. 

Also avoid adding unnecessary phrases.² Take the following examples: 

Don’t write: Centrifuging the protein samples is advisable in the case that they need to be stored for long periods. 

Instead, write: Centrifuging the protein samples is advisable if they need to be stored for long periods. 

Similarly, 

Don’t write: For doubts in subjects such as mathematics and physics, schoolchildren preferred consulting a friend. 

Instead, write: For doubts in mathematics and physics, schoolchildren preferred consulting a friend. 

Watch out for the noun form of verbs  

Adopting the noun form of verbs in your writing can introduce complexity and increase word count¹. 

For example, 

Don’t write: We took readings of the signal from 1000 km below sea level. 

Instead, write: We read the signal from 1000 km below sea level. 

Similarly, 

Don’t write: We purified the product through gradual refinement of the substrate. 

Instead, write: We purified the product by gradually refining the substrate. 

Get into the topic of your sentence directly  

Avoiding unnecessary details in your sentences can ensure that your own ideas get most of the reader’s attention. Therefore, it is best to jump right to the crux of your message with each sentence². 

For example, 

Don’t write: There have been many studies on similar topics. For example, ABC et al. reported on the molecular mechanisms of XYZ disease and DEF studied the pathogenesis and the role of DCE mutation. Our study is not linked to these. We focus on a novel mutation, FGH, and its role in XYZ disease. 

Instead, write: This work focuses on the role of a novel mutation, FGH, in the pathogenesis of XYZ disease. 

Conclusion 

There are no rigorous rules when it comes to sentence length in academic writing. But short sentences can work wonders in helping people grasp ideas. We hope that these tips help you write crisper, more effective sentences. For further help in polishing your manuscript, we recommend reaching out to the Elsevier Language Services! The native English-speaking editors here specialize in transforming manuscripts into more accessible and engaging versions. They not only ensure that your manuscript is error-free, but that it makes for a compelling read. Contact us today to create the best version of your manuscript! 

References: 

1. Write clear sentences. (2023, March 22). Student Academic Success. https://www.monash.edu/student-academic-success/excel-at-writing/improve-your-writing/write-clearly/write-clear-sentences. 

1. Writing Clearly & Concisely | UAGC Writing Center. (n.d.). https://writingcenter.uagc.edu/writing-clearly-concisely.