The Surgeon as a Scientific Writer

Abstract

The skills of a surgeon as a scientific writer are many and sophisticated. Recognizing the essential elements of research, learning how to plan and execute the idea, and finally assembling and reporting the data in a coherent and intelligent manner are all critical elements in successfully writing a publication. But writing a research paper is a demanding process that young surgeons are often ill-equiped to address. It consists of many complex tasks and inevitable difficulties that confront every researcher. From undergraduate programs through residency, more attention must be given to cultivate writing skills, especially within the scientific realm. In this article we specifically address these shortcomings while identifying solutions for and attributes of sound scientific writing. When we can manage the parts, we can manage the whole, and look forward to more research with greater confidence. Those who want to join communities that depend on research, such as surgical and medical communities, have to demonstrate not only that they can give good answers to hard questions, but also that they can report their results in ways that are useful to their community, and that means in ways that are apparent, accessible, and recognizable. Being a scientific writer allows him or her to clearly express and effectively convey the importance of worthwhile research. Only when someone has experienced the process of doing his or her own research can one intelligently evaluate the research of others.