Scientific Writing

All future Master’s graduates—whether in the “Professional” or “Research” track—must master the tools and conventions of effective scientific writing. Improving one’s scientific writing skills is essential for showcasing one’s work and communicating it to peers, colleagues, clients, and others…

The goal of this course unit is to improve students’ scientific and technical writing skills. While part of the course focuses on writing a scientific article, the instruction is equally suited to students in both the “professional” and “research” tracks, as all students will be required to write scientific or technical reports at some point in their careers.

Students will learn how to present their scientific work in an effective, precise, clear, and structured manner.  “À la carte” workshops will allow students to apply the concepts covered in class in a practical way. These workshops are organized in conjunction with assignments to be completed as part of other course units in their master’s program (Bibliographic Project course unit, PIT Project course unit, etc.). The course sessions are designed to encourage students to reflect on their own practices and identify methods, tools, and tips for improvement.

Assessment is based on continuous evaluation, with several exercises to be completed in connection with the various course units.

The module's content is organized into several sections:

• Writing: General Recommendations on the Content and Style of Scientific and Technical Writing
• Analyze the issue: define the topic by analyzing it and answering eight basic questions (Why? What? Who? When? Where? How much? How? What are the consequences?). Be able to present this analysis and use it to develop a structure for organizing the document.
• Writing an article or report: The main components of a scientific article or report: Crafting the “hooks”: title, keywords, abstract, and key ideas.
• Illustrate: Charts and Maps

Implementation: In the form of small-group workshops (or individual sessions), several options are offered depending on the student’s academic path: preparing a literature review (defining the research question) or revising an existing written piece, including self-critique.