Introduction
Scientific formulation is an essential part of every scientific paper, whether it is a bachelor’s thesis, master’s thesis, or dissertation. The following explains the basics of scientific formulation to create a successful and convincing thesis.
Make sure to maintain the red thread throughout the text.
Scientific Formulations in Minutes Seconds
Clarity and Precision
Understandability
Scientific texts should be clear and precise so that the reader can easily understand the information. Avoid technical jargon and cumbersome formulations, if possible. Explain terms necessary for understanding the text.
Do not use too many foreign words, as they can make the text difficult to understand.
Word Choice
Choose your words carefully to avoid misunderstandings. Use precise terms and avoid vague or ambiguous expressions.
Use synonyms to avoid monotony, but ensure they have the same meaning.
Mimir Mentor for Precise Formulations
Mimir is an automatic correction program that can help you improve your scientific paper. With Mimir, for example, you can automatically reformulate sentences more scientifically to make them more precise and clear. You can also use Mimir’s “Formulate Scientifically” feature to optimize the scientific terminology in your work.
Example Input: Potatoes are healthy… ➔ Result: Potatoes are rich in vitamins and minerals and can contribute to a balanced diet.
Coherence and Logic
A good argumentation structure is crucial for the coherence and logic of a scientific text. Ensure that your arguments are well thought out and comprehensible, and present them in a sensible order.
Practical Example: If you propose a thesis, first present the relevant facts and then the conclusions.
Objectivity and Neutrality
Factuality
Scientific texts should be objective and neutral. Report facts and results accurately and avoid biases or personal opinions.
Be careful not to draw premature conclusions and always support your statements with appropriate evidence.
Evidence
Providing evidence is essential to ensure the credibility of your statements. Use reliable and relevant sources to support your arguments.
Insufficient or missing evidence can lead to your work being viewed as unreliable or inaccurate.
Use a literature management program, like Citavi, OneNote, or Mimir Mentor.
Style and Language
The style and language of your scientific text should be appropriate and consistent. Use a formal, factual tone and ensure that your text is stylistically uniform.
| Informal | Formal |
|---|---|
| Colloquial expressions | Technical language |
| Short, simple sentences | Attention: No complex, convoluted sentences! -> Short, precise sentences |
| Emotional, subjective statements | Objective, neutral statements |
Let Mimir formulate your bullet point (Example Input: Running is great ➔ Result (1/3): Running is a healthy and effective form of physical activity that can contribute to the improvement of cardiovascular fitness, mobility, and mental health.)
Citing and Paraphrasing
Correct Citation
Correct handling of citations and sources is essential in a scientific paper. Ensure that you properly mark quotes and indicate their source.
Practical Example: Use citation styles like APA, MLA, or Chicago to uniformly and correctly indicate your sources.
Avoiding Plagiarism
Plagiarism can have serious consequences and jeopardize your academic career. Therefore, avoid presenting texts or ideas of others without proper citation as your own.
Plagiarism can lead to the disqualification of your work or even expulsion from the study program.
Figures and Tables
Figures and tables can help present complex information in a clear and comprehensible manner. Ensure that they are clear and easy to understand, and add explanations or legends if necessary.
Use figures and tables sparingly and only if they are necessary for understanding the text.
Structure and Layout
Structuring
A good structure and layout of your work make it easier for the reader to understand the text and the line of argumentation. Use headings and subpoints to structure the text clearly.
Table: Example of a clear structure
| Introduction | Main Part | Conclusion |
|---|---|---|
| Background and Objectives | Arguments and Evidence | Summary and Conclusion |
Summary and Abstract
The summary and abstract should provide a concise and meaningful overview of your work. Keep it brief and focus on the key results and conclusions.
A too long or unclear summary can cause the reader to lose interest in the text.
Editing and Proofreading
Spelling and Grammar
Spelling and grammatical errors can impair the overall impression of your work and disrupt the reading flow. Have someone proofread your work or use proofreading software to identify and correct errors.
Plan enough time for editing and proofreading to thoroughly revise the text.
Proofreading Features of Mimir Mentor
Use Mimir to check your report for grammar and spelling errors. This way, you can ensure that your report is professional and error-free.
Try proofreading directly:
Conclusion
The basics of scientific writing are essential for a successful academic paper. Pay attention to clarity, precision, coherence, objectivity, correct handling of citations, and a well-structured outline. With these tips and advice, you are well-prepared to create a convincing and high-quality thesis.
FAQs
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How do I find the right writing style for my scientific work?
Orient yourself on already published scientific works in your field and adhere to the formal and linguistic conventions of your discipline.
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How do I avoid plagiarism in my work?
Make sure to correctly cite all sources and quotations and not to adopt text passages or ideas of other authors without appropriate attribution.
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How do I find suitable and reliable sources for my work?
Use scientific databases, libraries, and specialist literature to find serious and relevant sources for your work. Tip: Use the scientific literature search of Mimir Mentor.
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How do I best structure my work?
Start with a clear outline and subdivide the text into logical sections with headings and subpoints.
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How do I manage to formulate my work clearly and concisely?
Avoid technical jargon and complicated formulations, explain necessary terms, and pay attention to clear and precise word choice.
