The Art of Academic Storytelling

How can you write scientifically demanding texts in such a way that readers actually want to read it? You can capture and retains reader’s attention by applying tried and trusted writing principles.

I will familiarize you with techniques you can use to develop a convincing narrative that clearly conveys what your research question is (What), why we should know the answer to it (Why) and that ensures that both your approach and research design can be derived directly from your research question (How).

We also address problems one might encounter when attempting to write about one’s research, e.g., writer’s block, and how to come up with a catchy title. Equipped with this knowledge participants then draft an abstract for their current research project and re­ceive immediate editing feedback from both the group and me. A well-crafted academic narrative can expedite publi­shing your research in peer-reviewed international journals. All of the workshop's input is designed so that you directly apply it to your own research.

The first workshop day consists of two parts. The first part offers space to discuss general difficulties in writing and strategies to overcome writer's block.

This is followed by reflections on how academic writing and research are connected as well as the possibilities and limitations of using artificial intelligence when writing academic texts, including the topic of good academic practice.
The second part presents strategies through which you can develop coherent texts and well-structured lines of arguments that generate viable frameworks for your contributions.

I will introduce you to simple yet relevant guiding questions you can follow to ensure that you formulate your research question clearly, answer it with a clear narrative, and place your findings in an overarching context.

After each input sequence, you will apply these strategies directly to your own research projects, for example through exercises like “Talk Your Science”.

You will also learn how to come up with a title that manages to use relevant terminology and at the same time sparks curiosity about your research.