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Organizing ideas logically Thinking clearly Expressing yourself accurately and concisely
Scientific Method
Sections of a Paper
Abstract completely summarizes the essence of your report; must be self-contained (it must make perfect sense to someone who hasnt read your report) Introduction States the purpose of the study and provides context; general background information progresses to your specific research objectives
Results section presents facts, which are descriptive; a summarization of data Discussion section presents points, which are analytical; an interpretation of data
Results Dos
Do use words to draw the readers attention to key patterns/trends in your data; i.e.,there should always be some explanatory text. Do describe each table and each figure individually and sequentially. Each figure/table must have a number and a title. The titles should be self-explanatory. Titles should be informative NOT y-axis vs. x-axis.
Results Donts
Do not discuss why the experiment was performed. Do not discuss how the experiment was performed. Do not discuss whether the results were expected, unexpected, disappointing, or interesting. Do not exclude data just because it contradicts a favored hypothesis.
Caterpillars generally fed at faster rates on diet A. Caterpillars feed at faster rates on diet A.
Transformation efficiency was expressed as the number of antibiotic-resistant colonies per microgram of pAMP. Our group expressed transformation efficiency as the number of antibiotic-resistant colonies per microgram of pAMP.
Interpret your results/data. Connect your results to current literature. Describe any anomalies in your data and potential sources of error.
The use of seat belts prevents physical injuries in car accidents. According to simulation studies, the use of seat belts may reduce certain types of physical injuries in car accidents.
Resources/References
Smith, J.K. 1987. Peas need water. J.Botany 85 (31): 53-59. Knisley, K. (2002). A student handbook for writing in biology. Sunderland, MA: Sinauer Associates.