Along with the complex ideas, terms and units of measurement in science and technical writing, the nature of science itself presents some additional challenges for writers and editors.
In some forms of writing, we accept, or even expect, emotion or exaggeration. For example, fiction or advertising engages readers by calling directly on their feelings and desires. In writing about science, however, it is important that the language is accurate and balanced.
Whereas journalistic writing often presents the world in black and white (New compound is a cure for cancer), quality science and technical writing needs to include the greys. This is because modern science is based on the testing of scientific theories. A theory is an explanation or model that reliably explains and predicts natural phenomena. Sound scientific theory is based on a careful and rational examination of hypotheses that have been repeatedly confirmed through observation and testing.
Scientists are aware that there is always the chance, however slight, that a new theory may broaden or change our knowledge and understanding. Scientific language needs to recognise that chance, and to describe events as possible and probable, rather than certain.
Scientific writing needs to draw a careful line between what is known and what is unknown:
We have discovered a new compound. This may lead to new treatments for cancer.
It needs to recognise that science is based on theories. Sometimes, nonscientists see this type of language as showing a lack of evidence or certainty about the science. But it is actually the most accurate way of describing any scientific theory.
Theories, in turn, are based on hypotheses. A hypothesis is a possible explanation for something that can be observed, and predicts what will happen in situations that can be tested. A good hypothesis makes logical sense, but this does not make it true – it is merely the basis for testing. While negative results of testing can prove a hypothesis false, positive results do not prove it true – they only increase our confidence in its accuracy. When several related hypotheses consistently provide a testable explanation of observations, this knowledge forms the basis of a theory.
But scientific and technical writing need not be bland or dull. Writing about science and complex material should also aim to engage readers, through great ideas, vivid images and metaphors, and clear and interesting language. It can tap into our humanity in an authentic way through storytelling or other artistic expression.
The presentation of data and graphics is also important in science writing. Consider the clear presentation of your scientific data as the visual partner to clear language. Showing discusses this topic in detail.
