Scientific Writing and Research Process
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Questions and Answers

What is one of the key principles for crafting an effective title?

  • Include as many keywords as possible
  • Be clear and specific about the research focus (correct)
  • Utilize complex jargon to show expertise
  • Use vague language to attract a broader audience

Which title type is most appropriate for questions about the research?

  • Thematic
  • Comparative
  • Descriptive
  • Interrogative (correct)

Why is it important to tailor the title to your target audience?

  • To comply with publishing standards
  • To incorporate more technical terms
  • To increase the title's word count
  • To ensure it resonates with the audience's knowledge and interests (correct)

What should be avoided when drafting an academic title?

<p>Utilizing passive voice constructions (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How can one ensure their title is unique?

<p>By checking against existing literature for similarities (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommended length for an effective title?

<p>10-15 words (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is an appropriate method for refining a title after drafting?

<p>Drafting multiple versions and seeking feedback (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What type of language should typically be avoided in a title?

<p>Vague terms that lack clear meaning (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is an important factor to consider when writing the Materials & Methods section?

<p>Assuming the reader's perspective and intentions (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following should be included in the Materials & Methods section?

<p>Ethical approval from the ethics committee (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a recommended stylistic approach when writing the Materials & Methods section?

<p>Utilizing passive voice to maintain an academic tone (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What should be justified in the Materials & Methods section?

<p>The choices made regarding data collection methods (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a critical proofreading tip when finalizing the Materials & Methods section?

<p>Confirm the source for the materials used is provided (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of an abstract in a research article?

<p>To offer a condensed version of the research for readers to judge its relevance (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of graphical abstracts?

<p>Overwhelming detail to convey complexity (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the ideal length range for an abstract?

<p>100-250 words (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which step is crucial for creating a logical flow in a graphical abstract?

<p>Sketch a layout to arrange elements (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What should be emphasized when selecting visual elements for a graphical abstract?

<p>Relevance to the research findings (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In a graphical abstract, how should text be presented?

<p>Minimal text with short phrases or bullet points (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What are the main findings or results in an abstract referred to as?

<p>Main findings (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which component is NOT typically included in an abstract?

<p>Detailed author biographies (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of the introduction section of a manuscript?

<p>To establish the storyline by presenting context, content, and conclusion. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a key element of the Materials & Methods section?

<p>Literature review (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In identifying gaps in the literature, which question is essential to address?

<p>What gaps in the literature would be filled by the current study? (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why is the methods section crucial for a study?

<p>It determines the reliability of the results based on the adopted procedures. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which statement best describes the 'funnel-down scheme' in writing introductions?

<p>Starting from broad context and narrowing down to specific objectives. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

When detailing study participants in the Materials & Methods section, which aspect is typically included?

<p>The number of participants involved. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What information does the rationale of a study provide in the introduction?

<p>The need for the study and its potential contributions. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is typically included in the study participants subsection of the Materials & Methods section?

<p>The demographics of the participants. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommended approach when choosing colors for a graphical abstract?

<p>Choose professional color schemes that enhance readability. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which tool is NOT recommended for creating scientific graphics?

<p>Microsoft Word (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What should be avoided in the writing of an abstract?

<p>Including lengthy background information. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the ideal number of keywords to include in a journal article?

<p>5-7 keywords. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What might indicate that your keywords are too specific?

<p>You receive no results at all. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to get feedback on your abstract?

<p>To confirm clarity and effectiveness. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a proper practice when finalizing a graphical abstract?

<p>Reviewing and revising based on feedback. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a disadvantage of using single-word keywords?

<p>They can lead to many false matches in search results. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which title demonstrates a clear focus on a specific application and organism?

<p>Engineering Bacterial Strains for Enhanced Biodegradation of Environmental Pollutants (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What characterizes a titled research question that is overly broad?

<p>It combines multiple unrelated topics. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which research title is specific regarding the method and context of application?

<p>Optimization of CRISPR-Cas9 Techniques for Targeted Gene Editing in Human Stem Cells (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which title effectively specifies an organism and its therapeutic application?

<p>Application of Synthetic Biology in Production of Anticancer Compounds from Engineered Yeast (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a primary issue of a title that attempts to cover too many areas?

<p>It lacks a clear research question. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which title specifically addresses sustainability in biofuel production?

<p>Evaluating the Potential of Microalgae as Sustainable Feedstocks for Biofuel Production (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which title effectively shows practical implications in agriculture?

<p>Harnessing Plant-Microbe Interactions to Improve Crop Resilience Against Climate Stress (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a characteristic of a well-defined research title?

<p>It specifies both the method and target area of research. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Effective Title

A title that accurately reflects the research, is clear, concise, and attracts the target audience for better discoverability.

Title Type

Choosing the proper title style (Descriptive, Interrogative, Thematic) best suited for research.

Target Audience

Considering the knowledge level and interests of the intended recipients of your research (e.g., experts, general public).

Keyword Incorporation

Including relevant keywords to enhance searchability and discoverability of research.

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Concise Title

A title that is brief (10-15 words) and clear, ensuring the core message is retained.

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Active Voice

Employing active voice for a more engaging title that conveys dynamism and clarity.

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Avoid Abbreviations

Refrain from using abbreviations or acronyms unless widely recognized to avoid confusion among readers

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Review and Revision

Crucial step of carefully scrutinizing your title for clarity, accuracy, and impact, and soliciting feedback for improvement.

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Precise Language

Using clear and unambiguous words that accurately represent the core concept of your research.

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Avoid Vagueness

Steering clear of ambiguous or unclear language that doesn't explicitly articulate research focus.

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Research Context

Include how the research fits within existing knowledge and discussions.

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Biotechnological Applications in Agriculture

Using microorganisms to improve farming, like enhancing crop resilience or increasing nutrient content.

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Genetic Modification Techniques

Methods to change an organism's genes, often to improve traits, like disease resistance.

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Gene Editing Technologies

Advanced tools, like CRISPR, to precisely change DNA sequences.

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Environmental Remediation

Using microorganisms to clean up pollution in the environment, like cleaning up oil spills.

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CRISPR-Cas9

A gene editing tool that allows precise cuts and alterations in DNA.

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Plant-Microbe Interactions

The ways plants and microbes work together, often beneficial to both, like increasing disease resistance in crops.

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Bioinformatics Tools (Protein Interactions)

Computer tools for finding out how proteins work together in complex biological processes.

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Microalgae for Biofuel

Using microscopic algae to create biofuel, a sustainable alternative to fossil fuels.

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Biosensor for Bacteria Detection

A tool to quickly and accurately identify bacteria, especially harmful ones, in food.

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Synthetic Biology and Cancer

Using engineered organisms, like yeast, to produce medicine, like treatments for cancer.

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Genetic Engineering and Nutrition

Altering the genetic makeup of crops to improve their nutritional content and yield.

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Bacterial Biodegradation

Using engineered bacteria to break down harmful environmental pollutants.

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Optimization of CRISPR

Improving the efficiency and accuracy of the CRISPR-Cas9 method for gene editing.

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Crop Resilience to Climate Stress

Methods to make crops more resistant to environmental stresses like drought and extreme temperatures.

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Abstract

Short summary of a research article, highlighting its key aspects and novelty, allowing readers to quickly assess its relevance.

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Graphical Abstract

Visual representation of a research study, summarizing key findings/concepts in a clear and concise manner.

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Key Messages

Most important results and conclusions that the audience should retain about the research.

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Visual Format

Chosen layout for graphical abstract (flowchart, diagram, infographic, etc.) that best presents the data.

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Simplicity

Characteristic of graphical abstract focusing on core findings, without overwhelming details.

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Clarity

Graphical abstract characteristic of using clear visuals and minimal text to effectively communicate the research findings.

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Visual Appeal

Aesthetically pleasing and easy-to-read design elements in a graphical abstract.

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Relevance

Ensuring the visuals directly relate to the research question and findings in graphical abstract.

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Introduction Purpose

Sets the scene for the research, explaining what's known, unknown, and why the study is necessary.

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Literature Gap

Identifies areas where existing research has shortcomings or unanswered questions, highlighting the need for new study.

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Hypothesis

A testable statement proposing a relationship between variables.

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Study Objectives

Specific goals the research aims to achieve, providing clear direction.

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Materials & Methods

Detailed description of how the research was conducted, emphasizing its reliability and reproducibility.

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Study Participants

Describes those involved in the research, including their number and selection method.

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Sample Size Calculation

Justification for the number of participants included in the study, ensuring its statistical validity.

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Data Collection Source

Describes the origin of the data used in research where participants were selected from a particular population.

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Inclusion criteria

Specific characteristics that participants must have to be part of a study.

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Exclusion criteria

Features that prevent a participant from joining a study.

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Data collection

Gathering information for a study, often using questionnaires or surveys.

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Patient consent

Formal agreement to participate in a study, by the patient/individual.

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Ethical approval

Formal permission from an ethics committee for a study to proceed.

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Materials & Methods

Detailed description of the study's procedures and resources.

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Subheadings

Smaller sections within the 'Materials & Methods' section to organize information more effectively.

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Past tense

Describing actions as completed in the past.

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Passive voice

Writing that emphasizes the action rather than the doer

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Statistical analyses

Methods used to analyze data and draw meaningful conclusions from a larger dataset.

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Color Scheme

A selection of colors used to create a design. Choose colors that are professional and improve readability.

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Graphic Design Tools

Software like Adobe Illustrator, Canva, or BioRender used to create scientific graphics. These tools have templates.

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Reviewer Feedback

Getting input from colleagues or mentors on your design to ensure clarity and effectiveness.

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Journal Guidelines

Specific rules for graphical abstracts set by journals or platforms.

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Brief Abstract

Keep the abstract short and to the point. Avoid lengthy background info.

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Short Sentences

Use short sentences to improve clarity and keep the abstract easy to read.

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Active Voice

Use active voice in the abstract to make it more engaging and easier to understand.

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Appropriate Tense

Use the right verb tense (present, past, future) to ensure accuracy and clarity in the abstract.

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Academic Tone

Use a formal and professional tone when writing the abstract.

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Keywords

Words that help readers find your research by searching databases.

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Keyword Selection

Choose keywords that accurately reflect the key concepts.

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Multi-word Keywords

Using multiple words to form a phrase for keywords to be more precise.

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Keyword Testing

Trying out your keywords to see if they retrieve relevant results.

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Study Notes

Scientific Writing

  • Scientific writing utilizes specific vocabulary and structures
  • Authors use precise language that avoids ambiguity
  • Key terms include research, publishing, guides, importance, reader, customary, scientific, literature, deductions, passive, tense
  • Documents are often structured with titles, abstracts, introduction, results, and discussions
  • Accuracy is crucial in scientific writing

Research Process

  • Research involves identifying the problem, then reviewing literature, and setting research questions, objectives, and hypotheses
  • Choosing the study design follows identifying the problem and reviewing the literature.
  • Collecting data is a crucial step followed by processing and analyzing the data.
  • Writing the report is one of the final steps in the process

Features of a Good Research Problem

  • Societal impact is a factor in research
  • The problem should be significant to the field
  • Originality is important in research
  • The problem should be interesting
  • Current researchability is essential
  • Feasibility of the study must be considered
  • Ethical implications should also be thought about

The Research Question

  • A clear research question is needed to be focused, specific, and researchable using primary and secondary sources
  • The research question should be feasible, complex, and arguable
  • It must be relevant to the field of study
  • The research question should be original

Difference Between Research Problem & Research Question

  • A research problem identifies a broad issue needing further study and identifies what's unknown or needs further research.
  • A research question is a precise inquiry to answer through research, guiding the study's direction.
  • A research problem is typically more general and may encompass multiple research questions.
  • The research question focuses on a more precise aspect of the research problem.

Examples on Research Problem & Research Question

  • Common research problems concern high costs of monoclonal antibody production, increased antibiotic resistance, severe side effects of cancer treatments, and time-consuming vaccine development.
  • Correspondingly, research questions aim to optimize fermentation for antibody production, investigate antibiotic resistance mechanisms, develop targeted drug delivery systems for cancer treatment, or utilize mRNA technology for faster vaccine development.

Research Objective

  • Research objectives outline the purpose and goals of the study and provide a study framework.
  • Characteristics of a good objective include being specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART).

Examples on Research Problem, Research Question & Objective

  • Genetic engineering of crops can pose problems with public skepticism about GMO safety and efficacy, requiring investigation into consumer attitudes toward genetically modified crops.
  • Bioremediation of contaminated soil needs efficient techniques, thus research would aim at evaluating microbial consortia's effectiveness in degrading polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in contaminated areas.

Steps to Help Select a Meaningful & Engaging Topic

  • To select an appropriate topic, consider personal interests from coursework, readings, and experiences
  • Review existing literature to understand what has already been studied and learn the gaps or trends.
  • Seek advice from mentors, advisors, or peers to gather insights.
  • Establish a focus, choosing a specific area of study.
  • Evaluate feasibility by assessing access to resources, data, and tools.
  • Consider potential evolution and flexibility in the research.
  • Choose a compelling topic to stay motivated during the research process.

Common Mistakes in Research Topic Selection

  • Rushing the process
  • Lack of clarity
  • Neglecting the target audience
  • Overcomplicating the topic

•Avoiding Literature Review

  • Ignoring methodological constraints
  • Not considering ethical implications

• Underestimating Time and Resource Needs

  • Lack of Engagement with Existing Research
  • Forgetting Practical Applications
  • Not Seeking Diverse Perspectives
  • Disregarding Personal Growth Opportunities

How to Read a Scientific Article

  • Focus on getting a comprehensive view of the article's content
  • Quality is more important than quantity; focus on recent, relevant, an well-cited articles
  • Read key sections like the abstract, introduction, results, and discussion for understanding the article's key points.
  • Actively engage with the content

Passive vs Active Reading

  • Passive reading involves reading word-by-word, and takes time.
  • Active reading (Q-P/C method) involves reading while engaging with questions, predicting the content of figures/tables, comparing the text to personal understanding.
  • The P/C method aims at a deeper understanding of the subject.

How to Read a Research Article

  • Skim by reading the title, abstract, headings, and subheadings
  • Note date published as it could be relevant.
  • Note any unknown terms for further research
  • Re-read the article to further questions
  • Collect important information and summarize the work

Which Sections of Each Journal Article Should I Read?

  • Clarify information needed.
  • Focus on specific aspects like methodology and findings.

Research Objective Steps

  • Determine desired outcomes
  • Select a format for clear presentation
  • Create a layout plan for information flow
  • Select visual representations for your findings

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Description

This quiz covers essential aspects of scientific writing and the research process. It focuses on the importance of precise language, structure in scientific documents, and the critical steps in conducting research. Test your knowledge on formulating research questions and identifying significant problems in your field.

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