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Paid certificateBeginnerWriting & Humanities

Writing in the Sciences

Kristin Sainani's Stanford course on clear, effective scientific and professional writing.

Taught byCoursera
Start free on Coursera

About this course

Covers principles of clear writing, strong sentences, punctuation and paragraphs, the writing process, scientific manuscripts, publishing ethics, grants and writing for the public.

Best for: Researchers, students and professionals who write technical documents.

What you will be able to do

  • Cut clutter and write clearer sentences
  • Structure paragraphs and manuscripts
  • Revise drafts systematically
  • Write for both peer reviewers and the public

Syllabus and your progress

Tick modules off as you finish them on Coursera.

0 of 7 modules done

Plan your pace

At 4 hours a week you would finish in about 6 weeks, using the course time estimate above.

Progress is saved in this browser only. No account needed.

Cost and certificate

Paid certificate

On Coursera's enrol screen many courses offer a free 'Full Course, No Certificate' option; the certificate is paid (financial aid can be requested). Check the options before you start.

Coursera sets the terms and can change them. Check the course page before you commit serious time, and tell us if something changed.

Quick answers

Is Writing in the Sciences really free?
Yes, the course material is free on Coursera. On Coursera's enrol screen many courses offer a free 'Full Course, No Certificate' option; the certificate is paid (financial aid can be requested). Check the options before you start.
How long does Writing in the Sciences take?
Plan for about 23 hrs in total (Provider module estimates total about 23 hours.). It is self-paced, so you can go faster or slower.
Do I need experience before Writing in the Sciences?
No. It is a beginner course with no prerequisites listed.

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Writing in the Sciences

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