Purpose of medical writing

Without a written record, research findings and observations do not exist, because there is no proof that the research was actually conducted. Valuable information obtained during research will, thus, be lost.

It must be kept in mind that medical or scientific writing noticeably differs from literary writing. Good scientific writing builds on clear communication and scientifically-observed results. In contrast, literary writing is a craft based on personal style, originality, and fiction.

In scientific writing, the presentation of huge amounts of complex information must be clear and well-structured. This is a proficiency that requires knowledge of the related scientific field and extended practice in writing.

The most essential skill for good medical writing lies in the writer’s ability to express highly complex concepts in clear words and sentences, and to report dry scientific procedures without any unnecessary decoration. It should be noted that, while the beauty of science lies in science itself, a confusing account of research data will never do justice to the science that lies behind it.