The condensed read: How to structure a science paper

The following article is a summary of our popular post 11 Steps to structuring a science paper editors will take seriously. Visit the article for a more in depth exploration!

Before You Write

• Define your research question, hypothesis, and objectives.

• Review the literature and select relevant references (about 30).

• Consult the journal’s Guide for Authors for specific formatting and style requirements.

Typical Manuscript Structure

A typical scientific article is organized as follows:

1. Title

2. Abstract

3. Keywords

4. Introduction: What is the problem? Why is it important?

5. Methods: How was the study conducted?

6. Results: What did you find?

7. Discussion: What do the results mean?

8. Conclusion

9. Acknowledgements

10. References

11. Supporting Materials

Recommended Writing Process

Although the published article starts with the title and abstract, it’s often easier to write your manuscript in this order:

1. Prepare figures and tables

   • Use clear, self-explanatory visuals.

   • Avoid clutter and redundancy.

   • Choose the right format (table for raw data, figure for comparisons).

   • Ensure legends are clear and all symbols readable.

2. Write the Methods

   • Provide enough detail for reproducibility.

   • Reference established methods; describe new ones fully.

   • Use standard nomenclature and units.

3. Write the Results

   • Present only essential findings.

   • Organize logically, often mirroring the Methods section.

   • Use subheadings for clarity.

   • Do not include references or discussion here.

4. Write the Discussion

   • Interpret your findings and compare with previous work.

   • Address limitations and unexpected results.

   • Avoid overstating significance.

5. Write the Conclusion

   • Summarize the main advances and implications.

   • Suggest future research directions.

6. Write the Introduction

   • Set the context and importance of your work.

   • Clearly state your objectives and hypothesis.

   • Be concise and avoid unnecessary background.

7. Write the Abstract

   • Briefly summarize what was done and the main findings.

   • Avoid jargon and keep it under 250 words.

8. Compose the Title

   • Make it specific, concise, and informative.

   • Avoid jargon, abbreviations, and unnecessary words.

9. Select Keywords

   • Choose terms not already in the title.

   • Follow journal guidelines.

10. Write Acknowledgements

    • Thank contributors and funders.

    • Include grant numbers if required.

11. Compile References

    • Ensure accuracy and correct formatting.

    • Avoid excessive self-citation.

Remember!

• Figures/Tables:

  Use color only if necessary; avoid duplicating information.

• Methods:

  List procedures in the order they appear in Results.

• Results:

  Use appropriate statistics; keep data presentation clear.

• Discussion:

  Stay focused on your findings; don’t introduce new concepts.

• Introduction:

  Move from general context to specific objectives.

• References:

  Use reference management tools and double-check details.

Overall: Start by preparing your data and methods, then build your manuscript section by section, finishing with the title, abstract, and keywords. Always tailor your work to the journal’s requirements and focus on clarity, accuracy, and logical flow.