Writing a convincing and effective discussion section of a biomedical research paper

Abstract

Writing a biomedical research paper is hard work. The paper must conform to the orthodox: Introduction, Method, Results, and Discussion. This format brings some order and logic to the research paper. The primary aim of writing a biomedical research paper is to contribute to scientific knowledge. This contribution must be explicit and it must occupy a prominent position in the paper. That position is the discussion section. Regrettably, the discussion is usually poorly written in most biomedical journals. The author’s contribution is often widely scattered throughout the discussion. Sometimes it is overwhelmed by the cited literature. This weakens the message and the impact of the contribution. The approach suggested by this author is aimed at structuring the discussion in such a way that the author’s contribution stands out. This will enable the author to write a compelling and effective discussion.