Ay 31
Writing in Astronomy
(Spring 2008)

Grading will be based on all of the bulletized items above. And yes, spelling, grammar, syntax, and document structure all count. Extra credit may be given to those who point out (politely and tactfully) errors of grammar or spelling in communications emanating from the course instructor.

The course text is Alley, The Craft of Scientific Writing, 1996 (3rd edition). We will also draw material from Porush, Short Guide to Writing About Science, 1994.

We will adhere to the schedule below. Much of your progress will be at your own initiative. Try not to fall behind as the end of the term has a tendancy to sneak up and several interim checks on progress are necessary.

"Why is writing important if I'm a science student?" is a complaint of the weary problem-set-laden Caltech student. Contrary to common perception,

good communication skills

In this course we are concerned with writing skills. A good writer will:

Scientific writing is a process. This process involves at least two stages: first thinking and planning, and second writing and packaging. The goal is to tell a convincing and well-woven story, not just transmit facts, and not just entertain. One perspective setting piece of advice to keep in mind is that your paper is of much more import to you, the invested author, than to most of its readers. It is therefore incumbent upon you to place as much effort as you can into effective communication; otherwise the average, generally lazy, potential reader is likely to go elsewhere for the information. This is not the desired outcome. You should, therefore, not only know and appreciate, but respect and engage your reader. Another piece of advice is to pick a topic in which you are truly interested. The process will be much easier on all of us if this is the case.

"Okay, I'm sold, but what should I write about"? Possible topics include a summer research project, an interest from the classroom, something you read about in Astronomy or Sky and Telescope, and so on. I do not have a comprehensive list, but some contemplation on your part, discussions with your mentor, and limited web surfing (see links below) may help you find -- and then narrow down -- your topic. Understanding of and passion for your topic is critical for being able to write well about it. The next thing to decide is the format of your paper. Possibilities here include a journal article, a telescope proposal, or a piece for the lay-scientific press.