For this course, your best guide for style is a well written scientific paper and the preceding guide. For advanced questions refer to the CBE Style Manual.
Title:
__ Includes scientific name of species studied
__ Includes factors manipulated
__ Includes parameters measured
Introduction:
__ Demonstrates familiarity with the pertinent literature and how it relates to the current study.
__ States the problem under investigation either in the form of a question or hypothesis.
__ Predicts the outcome of the experiment.
Methods:
__ States purpose of experiment.
__ Outlines the experimental design and gives rationale for treatments.
__ Clarifies controls if appropriate.
__ Provides sufficient detail so the experiment can be replicated by a knowledgeable person.
__ States types of data collected and any exceptions.
__ Mentions types of statistical test done.
Results:
__ Represent data either in tabular or graphic form
__ Graphs & illustrations = Figures
__ Tables = Tables__ Text:
__ Puts the data in context and summarize trends and relationships.
__ Reports qualitative observations.
__ Does not repeat all the information in a table/graph.
__ Compares experimental data to the controls.
__ Supports statements parenthetically with statistical results if appropriate.
__ Compares groups by looking at differences between them or calculating % difference.
Discussion:
__ Relates results to original predictions.
__ Points out discrepancies.__Suggests reasons for discrepancies - this is an opportunity for creative thinking and is what makes science exciting. Why? is a question you should often find yourself asking and trying to answer.
__ Suggests alternate hypotheses to explain results.
__ Uses literature to explain results.
__ Considers experimental design or error that might have resulted in unexpected results.__ Explains how the results fit into the current body of knowledge (literature).
__ Suggests future studies
Acknowledgments:
__ Clearly credits the contributions of others
References:
__ Correct form
__ All cited