STP Scientific Writing 2

Question 1

Which section of a scientific paper is typically written last but placed first?

Accepted Answer

Abstract

Answer

The abstract is written last because it summarizes the entire paper, including results and conclusions not known until the study is complete.

Question 2

In IMRAD structure, what does the 'R' stand for?

Accepted Answer

Results

Answer

IMRAD stands for Introduction, Methods, Results, And Discussion — the standard format for most scientific research articles.

Question 3

Which citation style is most commonly used in biomedical and clinical sciences?

Accepted Answer

Vancouver

Answer

The Vancouver system uses numbered citations in order of appearance and is standard in biomedical journals including those following ICMJE recommendations.

Question 4

A p-value of 0.03 should be reported in a scientific paper as:

Accepted Answer

p = 0.03

Answer

Exact p-values should be reported rather than threshold comparisons, as recommended by APA and most modern journal guidelines.

Question 5

What is the purpose of a 'limitations' paragraph in the Discussion section?

Accepted Answer

To acknowledge factors that may affect generalizability

Answer

A limitations paragraph honestly addresses constraints such as sample size or design flaws that may affect the validity or generalizability of conclusions.

(STP) Scientist Training Programme Practice Test

(STP) Scientist Training Programme Practice Test

STP Scientific Writing 2