Language: Being Forthright

Abstract

The purpose of scientific writing is to inform. Therefore, the attitude of the writer should be forthright; it should be sincere and straightforward. To be forthright in your writing, you have to control your tone. Tone is whatever in your language indicates the attitude that you, the writer, have towards your subject. Also, to be forthright you should select strong nouns and verbs. Nouns and verbs are the most important words in sentences. When your nouns and verbs are weak, your writing becomes lethargic.

Short words are best, and old words, when short, are best of all.

—Winston Churchill