Please keep in mind that these are only general guidelines; always defer to your professor’s specifications for a given assignment. If you have any questions about the content represented here, please contact the Writing Centers so that we can address them for you.
As in most scientific disciplines, the goal of writing in the Biological Sciences is to present information in a way that is as objective as possible. The validity and importance of a given piece of writing is dependent on the rigorous collection and presentation of observations and data. Therefore, writing in the Biological Sciences entails the concise presentation of information, the use of impersonal language, and a reliance on logical conclusions rather than persuasive argument. Here are some quick tips on how to do this in your own writing:
Introduction
- Avoid direct quotation: the information is more important than the author, so paraphrase the content of outside sources rather than quoting. Although direct quotations may be necessary in certain circumstances, they should be used sparingly. However, it is equally important to cite sources when paraphrasing the work of another.
- Be aware of your language: in general, it is a good idea to avoid writing in the first person, as in “I believe” or “We think”; rather use third person as in “These results suggest,” “The evidence supported the hypothesis.” Passive voice is more acceptable in scientific writing than it is in other fields, though over use may lead to uninteresting writing. Also, be careful when using words like “prove,” “significant,” or “relationship,” as these have very specific meanings in the sciences.
- Be as concise as possible: Present only relevant information, focus on the most important aspects of your topic, and try to avoid convoluted sentence structures. Again, the focus is on presenting the necessary information in the clearest way possible.
Preferred Bibliographic Style
As in other physical science fields, papers written in the Biological sciences will generally follow the CSE formatting style for citation, reference lists, and paper format. Although it is always a good idea to consult with your individual professor regarding the expected format and citation style for a given assignment, the previous resource may provide you with answers to many of your questions regarding these issues. However, for more in-depth discussion of these topics or for individualized help with citation, please make an appointment with us in the Writing Center.
Common Writing Assignments
- Lab Report – The goal of a lab report is to present the purpose, experimental methods, and findings of a given experiment. The George Mason University Department of Biology offers a helpful outline and expectations for each section of a Biology lab report.
- Literature Review – The purpose of a Literature Review is to become familiar with current research, analyze the current work on a given topic, and look for areas where further research is needed. The University of Lacrosse offers useful guidelines and tips for writing Biology Literature Review Papers.
Helpful Resources
Scientific Style and Format: The CSE manual for Authors, Editors, and Publishers. 7th ed. Reston, VA: Council of Science Editors in cooperation with the Rockefeller University Press, 2006. Print.
McMillan, Vicky. Writing Papers in the Biological Sciences. 4th ed. Boston: Bedford/St. Martins, 2006. Print.
