Writing about writing: Ideas for short report and journal article composition, 3rd edition, January 2013

Morrison-Saunders, A. (2013) Writing about writing: Ideas for short report and journal article composition, 3rd edition, January 2013.

Abstract

Introduction: In this report I model effective report writing structure and content whilst discussing these and other important writing issues. I start with this single paragraph but formally structured Abstract which properly contains elements of 'introduction', 'methodology', 'findings' (i.e. a combination of results and discussion) and 'conclusion'.

Methodology: I draw on personal opinion from experience as an academic as well as published guides and literature on writing, especially journal articles (i.e. themselves short reports).

Findings: Key suggestions are to develop a main message tailored to the identified audience through a story-telling approach which comprises a 'stand-alone' document that can be comprehended by a lay-person. Creating well structured and balanced sections each with descriptive headings and attractively laid out and presented improves transmission of important content. Careful and convincing use of references is vital in argument construction and ensuring credibility. While this report may serve as a useful writing template, effective writing requires practice and revision and the art of good writing is a lifelong pursuit.

Conclusion: I demonstrate that creative writing can be produced whilst simultaneously adhering to the guidance I advocate.

Item Type:	Others
Murdoch Affiliation(s):	School of Environmental Science
URI:	http://researchrepository.murdoch.edu.au/id/eprint/12601

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