Writing in the Environmental Sciences
A Seven-Step Guide

Tailored to environmental scientists, this guide outlines seven steps for writing documents in the context of conserving natural resources.

L. Michelle Baker (Author)

9781316643563, Cambridge University Press

Paperback / softback, published 14 July 2017

258 pages
22.6 x 15.2 x 1.6 cm, 0.51 kg

'L. Michelle Baker's Writing in the Environmental Sciences is a clear, thoughtful, and comprehensive guide to a kind of writing that is both necessary and daunting. The author understands that writing takes place in larger contexts of institutional and disciplinary expectations, and she lays out a step-by-step guide to writing effectively within these contexts. This book covers all of the bases. It shows writers how to be clearer, more concise, and more persuasive. And it includes plentiful examples of what good writing looks like.' Michael Austin, Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs, University of Evansville, Indiana

As an environmental scientist, you are used to writing scientific articles, but how confident do you feel writing policy or regulatory documents? Do you feel you have the necessary writing skills to influence policy and inform the public? This refreshingly clear guide provides environmental scientists and conservation professionals with an effective writing process that can be applied in a range of financial, political, or organizational contexts. Baker outlines a replicable seven-step writing formula based on practical experience that acknowledges the complexities inherent in the worlds of endangered species, habitat conservation, and recovery planning. Using the formula, scientists will be able to communicate confidently and successfully with a multitude of audiences. Baker's guide is written for scientists, not professional writers. In it, best practices abound. Practical examples, strategies, and diagrams guide the reader at every step, and selected resources are provided for further reference.

Preface
Introduction
Step 1. Laying the foundation
Step 2. Exploring
Step 3. Arranging
Step 4. Selecting a writing style
Step 5. Crafting
Step 6. Revising
Step 7. Polishing
Conclusion
Appendix A: the 7 steps to writing with clarity
Appendix B: environmental research databases
Appendix C: sample style guide checklist
Appendix D: writing resources for long-term professional development
Appendix E: non-English related writing skills
References.

Subject Areas: Environmental science, engineering & technology [TQ], Conservation of wildlife & habitats [RNKH], Conservation of the environment [RNK], Applied ecology [RNC], Environmentalist, conservationist & Green organizations [RNB], The environment [RN], Earth sciences [RB], Ecological science, the Biosphere [PSAF]