Chapter 1. The Editor’s Studio

Introduction

In this activity, you will explore how to use the APA-style of writing to communicate clearly, consistently, and concisely with others.

Dr. Melanie Maggard

Dr. Natalie J. Ciarocco, Monmouth University

Dr. David B. Strohmetz, Monmouth University

Dr. Gary W. Lewandowski, Jr., Monmouth University

Something to Think About...

The APA style of writing is technical, meaning that when we write an APA-style report, our writing must be consistently clear and concise. Unlike in more artistic styles of writing, where we may use flowery language and detailed explanations to convey a point, we use technical writing to communicate ideas and research in the most easily understandable, least biased format possible.

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Something to Think About...

When you know how to write in APA style, you become better able to communicate effectively with others. Keep in mind that one of the qualities of a good researcher is the ability to communicate findings in order to advance science. But this ability can only come with practice—and more practice!

Instructions

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Let’s put your APA-style communication skills to the test. The following questions will ask you to choose the best option for communicating information, and will help you practice writing more clearly, simply, and directly.

Say It Succinctly

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Conaway and DeBoer (2015) conducted a correlational analysis of TV-viewing time and BMI scores in children between kindergarten and the first grade. Results showed a positive correlation between the number of hours of television watched and BMI.

Say It Succinctly

In an experiment with college students, Maggard (2000) administered informational, controlling, or no feedback after conducting an anagram task. Students were then asked to complete a second anagram task. Self-efficacy was measured to determine change from before to after feedback was administered. Female students who received informational feedback significantly increased their self-efficacy, while those who received controlling or no feedback did not change their self-efficacy.

Choose Your Words Wisely

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A correlational analysis of IQ and head size of children between the ages of 4 and 7 showed a significant positive correlation (Jensen & Johnson, 1994).

Choose Your Words Wisely

Dittmar, Halliwell, and Ive (2006) conducted a study exposing girls to images of Barbie Dolls, Emme dolls (U.S. Size 16), or no dolls at all. When they measured body esteem after exposure, those girls who were exposed to Barbie Dolls had lower body esteem than those in the Emme dolls or no dolls conditions.

Use Your Verb Tenses Correctly

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Use Your Verb Tenses Correctly

Keep Things Clear and Organized

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Keep Things Clear and Organized

Take Home Message

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As you proceed in your academic and professional career, it might be useful to consider the old adage—K.I.S.S., or “Keep It Simple, Stupid!”—when it comes to writing. The more clear, concise, and consistent your writing, the better able you are to communicate your ideas.

Although mastering the ability to write simply and directly requires practice, doing so allows us to contribute to the advancement of science. APA style provides guidelines for how we can more effectively communicate and, as a result, be better researchers.

Congratulations! You have successfully completed this activity.

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