By Tiffany Fox Although it’s an unlikely source of guidance for science writers, Transcendentalist philosophy — made famous by Ralph Waldo Emerson, Henry David Thoreau and other 19th century thinkers — is surprisingly relevant for anyone seeking to persuade readers to take an interest in the natural world. The Transcendentalists are most often referenced in …
How to Use (And Not Abuse) Direct and Indirect Quotes, Part Two
This is Part Two in a two-part series on using direct and indirect quotes. Read Part One here. By Tiffany Fox Quotations (also known in journalism as direct quotes and indirect quotes) help to humanize science and often add much-needed emotional contrast. They provide a sense for the “characters” in our stories – what drives them, how …
Continue reading "How to Use (And Not Abuse) Direct and Indirect Quotes, Part Two"
How to Use (And Not Abuse) Direct and Indirect Quotes, Part One
This is Part One in a two-part series on using direct and indirect quotes. Check back soon for Part Two! By Tiffany Fox Quotations (also known in journalism as direct quotes and indirect quotes) help to humanize science and often add much-needed emotional contrast. They provide a sense for the “characters” in our stories – …
Continue reading "How to Use (And Not Abuse) Direct and Indirect Quotes, Part One"
How Science Writers Help Scientists to Think More Deeply
I recently came across a compelling passage (below) from computer scientist Luis von Ahn, the founder of Duolingo and CAPTCHA, among other things. What struck me was how accurately his words reflect what we as science writers do each time we say, "I don't understand. Can you explain that to me?" As von Ahn notes, …
Continue reading "How Science Writers Help Scientists to Think More Deeply"
Where Do I Even Begin?
How asking questions can help you find your lede sentence By Tiffany Fox “The most important sentence in any article is the first one. If it doesn’t induce the reader to proceed to the second sentence, your article is dead.” — William Zinsser, On Writing Well Is there a science to writing a good opening …
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