Scientific Writing

• Be able to explain the two major kinds of requirements of APA style.

• Name and explain several purposes of APA style.

• Compare and contrast class papers, published papers, and manuscripts.

• Know the types of research papers and how they differ.

• Know the sections of an experimental research paper.

• Be able to describe the required content for each section.

• Be able to correctly use APA mechanics in regards to:

   

  • Font, spacing, page numbering, pagination
  • Short title (header), running head, levels of headings
  • Citing references, building a reference list
  • Tables, figures, and appendixes
  • Seriation, capitalization, digits vs words for numbers

• Be able to correctly use APA form in regards to:
  • Content of each section of the paper
  • Placement of information in the correct section
  • Scientific vs everyday word usage

• Demonstrate clarity of expression in writing.
  • Use organization to help the reader follow your ideas
  • Explain your organization explicitly to the reader
  • Consider whether each sentence says what you mean
  • Provide transitions and summaries where needed