Power Papers -- Some Practical Pointers, Part 1
School of Computing
National University of Singapore
COM1 Level 2
SR1, COM1-02-06
Abstract:
If I write with the flowery flourish of Shakespeare, but my prose proves problematic, then my words become like a noisy gong or a clanging cymbal. If I have the gift of mathematical genius and can fathom all theorems, but cannot articulate the arcane, my genius appears no different from madness. If I achieve breakthrough research that can change the world, but cannot explain its significance, the world gains nothing and I labor in vain.
Writing a good research paper takes effort; more so if there is a page limit. Yet this skill is required of every researcher, who, more often than not, fumbles his or her way through. Good grammar is only a start; care and craft must be applied to turn a mediocre paper into a memorable one. Writing skills can indeed be honed.
In this talk, I will highlight the common mistakes many authors make, and offer practical pointers to pack more punch into your paper. Needless to say, the talk will be biased: I will speak not from linguistic theories, but from personal experience, sharing what has, and has not, worked for me. Students and staff are all welcome to participate:
your views and insights will certainly benefit us all.
Biodata:
Dr. Terence Sim is an Associate Professor at the NUS School of Computing. His research is in biometrics and computational photography. He also has a passion for sharing ideas on how to speak and write well. Over the years, Dr. Sim has coached students in writing technical papers, and giving research talks. He also actively strives to improve his own speaking and writing, learning from peers and master speakers.