UNAIR NEWS – One of the keys to the successful publication of popular scientific articles is that they are understandable for the general public. However, in practice, writers sometimes still find it difficult to assemble words that the wider community can accept. In this regard, Universitas Airlangga held a training on how to write popular scientific articles on Tuesday, September 14, 2021.
Being held virtually, the event presented Markus Sumartomdjon, a journalist of Kontan newspaper. In his presentation, he explained tips for writing popular scientific articles or opinions that could attract the attention of the mass media.
Markus explained that an interesting article has an argumentative nature and expresses an opinion or criticism. “An interesting article is to give views, opinions, responses, or criticisms of a real social condition,” he said.
Markus said that we need to determine the ideas before writing an article. “This can be through the results of scientific research, the latest data from statistical institutions or other competent research institutions, the latest scientific discoveries, and issues discussed a lot in various media,” explained Markus. In addition, Markus also suggested that the ideas should be following the author’s scientific background.
In addition, the up-to-date or actual theme is no less important to determine the idea of the article. “This is important to ensure that the article is up to date or fresh,” he said.
When writing, continued Markus, start with making an outline of the article. According to him, the outline is important so the article is well-structured and easy to understand by general readers.
“Authors can also start writing by using a chart. Generally, it contains the latest problems or research, explanations of research problems or results, explanations of causes, and solutions or advantages of research results,” said Markus.
Markus said that there are five important points that the author must pay attention to. Those points are using language that is easy to understand, minimizing the use of academic terms, only summarizing data in the form of numbers to support the author’s arguments, using effective and efficient sentences, and writing original ideas through different points of view.
“Finally, don’t forget to re-check the article. Make sure there are no writing errors. Then, don’t forget to also send the article to media with the same characteristics as our writing. In addition, don’t forget to continue to drill your skills and competencies,” concluded Markus.
Furthermore, at the event, Prof. Djoko Santoso, dr., Ph.D., Sp.PD.K-GH.FINASIM., as chairman of the academic senate of Universitas Airlangga, explained the reasons for writing and publication.
“We write something because there is a noble context to maintain existence forever. By writing, we can protect civilization, record history, draw abstract ideas, perpetuate thoughts, and bind knowledge,” explained Prof. Djoko.
Regarding the reasons for publishing an article, Prof. Djoko summed it up in six points. “To clarify thoughts, interact with someone, gain respect and credibility, gain professional legitimacy, strengthen your position, and give something back to your profession,” he explained.
Author: Fauzia Gadis Widyanti
Editor: Khefti Al Mawalia (YA/AP)
