By Stephanie Thomas
Science writing is a field of journalism that aims to communicate the world of science through forms of popular media such as blogs, magazines and journals. Science writing is broad and can cover topics ranging from genetics, to artificial intelligence, to environmentalism.
Writing of this type is dynamic and multifaceted, and most writers are specialized in a specific field. Whether it’s producing a trade publication or a technical journal, this kind of writing is essential to society because it helps translate abstract and complex findings into lay terms for the general public.
When we think about writing, most of us don’t immediately jump to science writing. Instead, we think about writing blogs, articles, grants, business documents or presentations. But science writing can involve these types of writing, too. The science writer (like any other) must find their niche—be it public, academic or business-oriented.
But there is a totally different facet of science writing: scientific writing. Scientific writing is different because it is a strict form of technical writing performed by scientists for their peers in the world of academic research. Its rules on grammar, format and structure are strictly enforced. For example, every scientific paper has to have a minimum of five main sections: abstract, introduction, methods, results and discussion. However, many scientists tend to struggle with this stage of their work.
Why? Because they’re not writers. And often enough, their papers are filled with complex terminology and technical jargon. Scientists struggle with writing because they aren’t taught how to communicate complex theoretical findings into everyday language.
Most scientific publications aren’t written with the average reader in mind. Furthermore, this writing is sometimes difficult for other scientists to read. When researchers want to go further with their work (and publish their findings), professional writing skills become incredibly valuable.
The most brilliant of findings can be swept under the rug if they are not communicated properly. All science tends to build on previous findings—and effective reporting is a key component in this process.
Many research results and scientific breakthroughs simply aren’t made accessible for the general public. Often, this is because of ineffective writing and the lack of proper translation. Cue the science-savvy writer.
Familiarizing Yourself with the Broader Contexts
Most professional writers are uninformed about this writing style and the opportunities therein. Why don’t we hear more about the possibilities for professional writers in these areas of science? Why isn’t anyone talking about the communication issues going on in small academic research circles?
Well, it’s because the majority of people in these environments don’t leave these circles. There is a huge gap between them and the public. And it’s up to writers of a certain breed to help close it.
While the overall goal of scientific writing is to communicate precise scientific findings and figures, good writing is still evident. Papers that follow a narrative structure and are interesting to read have a greater chance of being shared outside of academic circles and reaching the rest of society. Good science is worthless if it’s not communicated properly.
If you’re interested in science journalism, the nice thing about getting involved is that it’s quite egalitarian. Most publications accept open submissions for article ideas. Search through the websites for “submission guidelines” or even contact editors directly.
If you want to get a feel for how academic writing works in the world of science, start by reading science blogs in your area of interest. Follow your favorite writers and familiarize yourself with their citations and sources. Or do your own research. Most interesting articles have abstracts available online and are easily located.
Many professional writers have gone on to specialize in writing and editing for scientists within a specific field—such as medicine, psychology, astrophysics or ecology. Writers who work with (and within) scientific communities help bridge the divide between the world of scientific discovery and the general public.
A specialized science writer can cover a range of topics within their specific field of interest. For instance, as an environmental writer you could can write on alternative theories for climate change education. Or, write an article on the psychological benefits of urban forest projects. You could even help popularize new innovations created to aid endangered populations.
Writing in the sciences readily ties in to a vast landscape of sociopolitical issues. It is the vehicle by which new information, theories and findings are incorporated into society. The best science writers are tough, informed critics who never forget the greater importance of their task. Just as with any writing, science writing is diverse and expansive. It’s all about finding your niche.
