37.2 General tips

A series of experimental studies concludes that

… a majority of undergraduates admit to deliberately increasing the complexity of their vocabulary so as to give the impression of intelligence.

— Oppenheimer (2006), p. 139

That is, study like to use fancy words to sounds clever. One conclusion of the study was that using ‘fancy’ language does not work: ‘needless complexity leads to negative evaluations…’ (Oppenheimer (2006), p. 151). One recommendation by the author is to

… write clearly and simply if you can, and you’ll be more likely to be thought of as intelligent.

— Oppenheimer (2006), p. 153

With this in mind, a scientific paper:

• Should use simple, clear but technically correct language.
  
• Should present the facts in an unbiased manner.
• Should be clear, concise and complete.
• Should use facts to make statements.
• Should be complete enough that other professionals can repeat the study.

Likewise, a scientific paper:

• Should not be haphazard, jumbled or illogical.
• Should not be used as a personal soapbox.
• Should not reach conclusions not based on the reported evidence.
• Should not be for insiders only.
• Should not overstate what has been learnt from the study.