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writing in the disciplines
biology main > assignments > tone
choosing an appropriate tone
Because biology writing can take such a variety of forms, it is important to consider which audience is the most appropriate for each genre or purpose—and therefore what conventions of tone to use for each. The advice on tone below is divided by types of biology writing.
research and lab reports
When writing up the results of research, biologists can safely assume that they are writing for other scientists. They don't need gimmicks or devices to convey what they did, why they did it, and what they found. Writing in research and lab reports is precise and concise.
essays and literature reviews
When writing analytical essays or literature reviews, biological scientists can make at least two assumptions about their readers: (1) they have a background in life sciences in general and (2) they have an interest in the subject in particular.
The second assumption is especially important in choosing tone. Essays and literature reviews do not begin with journalistic hooks or rhetorical questions; rather, they get straight to the point.
grant proposals
Unlike readers of lab reports and literature reviews, readers of grant proposals may have little or no scientific background. Writers of grant proposals always need to know who will be reviewing the proposal: other scientists, businesspeople, academics, or a more general audience. Often the call for proposals will give you this information. If you are uncertain, make sure to ask.
As with lab reports, essays, and literature reviews, grant proposal writing needs to be efficient and direct. Words are valuable when trying to persuade someone of the merit of your proposed work; readers generally consider it a waste of time and space when the writer tries to be cute or clever. Writers of grant proposals need to use the small space that they are allotted as efficiently as possible.
examples of appropriate and inappropriate introductions for biological writing
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