Scientific writing: Basics

Are you struggling with writing in English? Perhaps you’ve not written much before and feel unprepared for writing at even a basic level. As such, you might need help with some points of grammar which are essential for scientific writing. This course takes a functional approach to grammar in scientific writing, helping you to understand the basic concepts (e.g. noun phrases, verb tense and aspect, clauses) before putting this knowledge to use in writing a short assignment.

Learning goals:

• Understand fundamental grammatical concepts in English that are essential for scientific writing
• Apply acquired grammar knowledge effectively in a scientific writing context

Format:

The course consists of five 2-hour sessions on consecutive weeks. However, please note that possible public holidays or the instructor getting sick may have an effect on how many weeks the course lasts.

Schedule 2025-26

• Group 1: Nov 20, Nov 27, Dec 4, Dec 11, Dec 18 (9:30 to 12:00)
• Group 2: Spring 2026 (tba)

Who should take this course?

We recommend this course if you suspect your English writing skills may not yet be at B2 level. Mastering the content of this course is essential to be able to write your PhD thesis (and to be able to take part in other GSSE scientific writing courses).

The course workload is 10 class hours and approximately 10 self-study hours.