Importance of scientific writing
Scientific and research writing is crucial for a teaching career in
orthodontics. Doing research is only half of the picture. If the results of
research studies are not published, other researchers cannot further build on it
and overall science can not develop and grow.
Participations at congresses, oral or poster presentations are very important
too, but original articles are the most important and decisive factors for
academicians. The fact that reviewers, which are experts in the same field of
research, have approved the publication of a paper, gives it automatic
credibility and authority. Considering the well known difficult and time
consuming process of revision, research articles are viewed with respect from
the community of a said field.
Scientific writing may not be easy. It may take time for an individual to get
the hang of writing is such a way that their article doesn’t go un-noticed. This
reminds me of what JW Howie once quoted;
“Not all who look at a journal are going to read even one article in it; writers
must know therefore what turns a looker into a reader”.
I would like to encourage faculty members and residents to write with a positive
attitude. It will benefit readers as well as themselves. Moreover it will
benefit the profession. I want residents reading and writing for “Pakistan
Orthodontic Journal”.
Professor. Ambreen Afzal Ehsan
BDS, FCPS.
President,
Pakistan Association of Orthodontists.