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Topic: Craft of writing
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Article

Marlene Zuk on Tackling Writer’s Block (As a Scientist)

"Structure may help some scientists write, but it doesn’t address the root cause of the problem. I believe our writer’s block stems from the same place as that of other writers: it’s not a writing problem, it’s a thinking problem. Writing is thinking, which means that if you aren’t sure of what you want to say, you can’t write. But scientists don’t always recognize that connection."
Article

Marlene Zuk on Tackling Writer’s Block (As a Scientist)

Summary:
"Structure may help some scientists write, but it doesn’t address the root cause of the problem. I believe our writer’s block stems from the same place as that of other writers: it’s not a writing problem, it’s a thinking problem. Writing is thinking, which means that if you aren’t sure of what you want to say, you can’t write. But scientists don’t always recognize that connection."
Published By:

Literary Hub

Date:

March 20, 2026

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Article

An Engineer’s Fatal Flaw: Why Accessibility Is the Ultimate Metric of Mastery

Association of Science Communicators

"If you can’t explain it to a six-year-old, do you really understand it? In this guest piece, Maggi Richard challenges the esoteric tone of academic publishing. From sci-fi tropes to gold standard examples, she explores why accessibility – not complexity – is the true mark of mastery. By approaching communication training with the same rigor we apply to calculus, scientists can ensure their breakthroughs reach the general public with clarity. Read the full blog post to discover how breaking down technical barricades can help raise the global standard of innovation."
Article

An Engineer’s Fatal Flaw: Why Accessibility Is the Ultimate Metric of Mastery

Summary:
"If you can’t explain it to a six-year-old, do you really understand it? In this guest piece, Maggi Richard challenges the esoteric tone of academic publishing. From sci-fi tropes to gold standard examples, she explores why accessibility – not complexity – is the true mark of mastery. By approaching communication training with the same rigor we apply to calculus, scientists can ensure their breakthroughs reach the general public with clarity. Read the full blog post to discover how breaking down technical barricades can help raise the global standard of innovation."
Organization:

Association of Science Communicators

Author:

Maggi Richard

Published By:

A Science Blog

Date:

March 9, 2026

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Book

The Best Science Stories and How They Work

"With eleven deeply reported, artfully crafted stories and annotations by some of the most thoughtful and respected science journalists working today, The Best Science Stories and How They Work is more than the sum of its impressive parts. Experience the pleasure of reading a “Best of” anthology, attending a science writing masterclass, and meeting journalists who become more than their familiar bylines. Each piece benefits from an introduction, annotations, and a conversation between the piece’s author and annotator."
  • Edited by Siri Carpenter, cofounder of The Open Notebook
Book

The Best Science Stories and How They Work

Summary:
"With eleven deeply reported, artfully crafted stories and annotations by some of the most thoughtful and respected science journalists working today, The Best Science Stories and How They Work is more than the sum of its impressive parts. Experience the pleasure of reading a “Best of” anthology, attending a science writing masterclass, and meeting journalists who become more than their familiar bylines. Each piece benefits from an introduction, annotations, and a conversation between the piece’s author and annotator."
  • Edited by Siri Carpenter, cofounder of The Open Notebook
Published By:

University of Chicago Press

Date:

June 1, 2026

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Training

​​Strategic Climate Change Communication Certificate Program

"Strategic Climate Change Communication is a 14-week online certificate program offered by the Yale Program on Climate Change Communication (YPCCC). Designed for working professionals, including advocates and educators, this course empowers participants to turn science into stories, translate values into vision, and design communication strategies that inspire real-world climate action. No prior background in communication or environmental science is required."
  • Dates: May 25 - August 28, 2026
  • Cost: $3,000 in advance, or two installments of $1,500 each. Limited discounts may be available.
  • Deadline to apply: March 9. Space is limited.
  • Register for a Feb. 25 info session, 4-5 p.m. ET
Training

​​Strategic Climate Change Communication Certificate Program

Summary:
"Strategic Climate Change Communication is a 14-week online certificate program offered by the Yale Program on Climate Change Communication (YPCCC). Designed for working professionals, including advocates and educators, this course empowers participants to turn science into stories, translate values into vision, and design communication strategies that inspire real-world climate action. No prior background in communication or environmental science is required."
  • Dates: May 25 - August 28, 2026
  • Cost: $3,000 in advance, or two installments of $1,500 each. Limited discounts may be available.
  • Deadline to apply: March 9. Space is limited.
  • Register for a Feb. 25 info session, 4-5 p.m. ET
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Article

Writing Nature Through Illness and Disability

Society of Environmental Journalists (SEJ)

"Writers with disabilities and chronic illnesses explore perspectives on nature and environment in a unique anthology, 'Moving Mountains.' Editor Louise Kenward discusses the recent volume with contributor William Allen in a new BookShelf 'Between the Lines' Q&A — the connection between climate change and disability, the benefits of learning to rest, the value of engaging with different perspectives and more. "
Article

Writing Nature Through Illness and Disability

Summary:
"Writers with disabilities and chronic illnesses explore perspectives on nature and environment in a unique anthology, 'Moving Mountains.' Editor Louise Kenward discusses the recent volume with contributor William Allen in a new BookShelf 'Between the Lines' Q&A — the connection between climate change and disability, the benefits of learning to rest, the value of engaging with different perspectives and more. "
Organization:

Society of Environmental Journalists (SEJ)

Published By:

SEJournal

Date:

January 14, 2026

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Workshop

Orion Environmental Writers’ Workshop

The Omega Institute in Rhinebeck, New York

"Join a community of writers, improve your craft, and reimagine how you think about nature. Guided by award-winning instructors, the Orion Environmental Writers’ Workshop provides an intimate space to connect with writers, artists, and editors, spark creativity, and renew, illuminate, and deepen your relationship with place. This week-long workshop is cosponsored by the Omega Center for Sustainable Living. Whether your passion is nonfiction, fiction, or poetry, the Orion Environmental Writers’ Workshop is a creative laboratory for anyone seeking to reflect their environments through their work. The course features breakout sessions dedicated to intensive craft practice, faculty readings and lectures, student readings, and panels on publishing."
  • Apply for the June 14-19, 2026 workshop by May 1, 2026.
  • Early bird tuition rate ends March 15.
  • Limited financial aid is available. Deadline to apply for a scholarship is March 1.
Workshop

Orion Environmental Writers’ Workshop

Summary:
"Join a community of writers, improve your craft, and reimagine how you think about nature. Guided by award-winning instructors, the Orion Environmental Writers’ Workshop provides an intimate space to connect with writers, artists, and editors, spark creativity, and renew, illuminate, and deepen your relationship with place. This week-long workshop is cosponsored by the Omega Center for Sustainable Living. Whether your passion is nonfiction, fiction, or poetry, the Orion Environmental Writers’ Workshop is a creative laboratory for anyone seeking to reflect their environments through their work. The course features breakout sessions dedicated to intensive craft practice, faculty readings and lectures, student readings, and panels on publishing."
  • Apply for the June 14-19, 2026 workshop by May 1, 2026.
  • Early bird tuition rate ends March 15.
  • Limited financial aid is available. Deadline to apply for a scholarship is March 1.
Organization:

The Omega Institute in Rhinebeck, New York

Dates:

Category:
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Workshop

George R.R. Martin Summer Intensive Writing Workshop

"The third annual George R.R. Martin Summer Intensive Writing Workshop at Northwestern University’s Medill School of Journalism, Media, Integrated Marketing Communications is now accepting applications.  The 10 mid-career journalists selected to participate will learn from award-winning novelists and writing instructors. The eight-day, fully funded writing intensive program, which will take place in Evanston, Illinois, July 7-15, 2026, will focus on writing fiction. Journalists worldwide can apply. Must be fluent in and writing in English." Deadline: Jan 12.
Workshop

George R.R. Martin Summer Intensive Writing Workshop

Summary:
"The third annual George R.R. Martin Summer Intensive Writing Workshop at Northwestern University’s Medill School of Journalism, Media, Integrated Marketing Communications is now accepting applications.  The 10 mid-career journalists selected to participate will learn from award-winning novelists and writing instructors. The eight-day, fully funded writing intensive program, which will take place in Evanston, Illinois, July 7-15, 2026, will focus on writing fiction. Journalists worldwide can apply. Must be fluent in and writing in English." Deadline: Jan 12.
Dates:

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Video

From Print to Prompts: What the Past Says About the Future of Science Journalism

University College London (UCL) Science and Technology Studies

"We were honoured to host the 2025 AAAS Kavli Science Journalism Award Lecture, featuring 2024 award winner Natasha Loder. Her talk, From Print to Prompts: What the Past Says About the Future of Science Journalism, explores the evolution of science reporting — from the analog age of print, through digital disruption, to the dawn of AI. With over 25 years in the media, Natasha shares candid reflections, sharp insights, and unforgettable stories from the frontlines of journalism. From navigating newsroom culture to unexpected anecdotes (yes, even a bikini wax on expenses!), this lecture challenges us to rethink what journalism is for, who shapes it, and where science writing fits in."
Video

From Print to Prompts: What the Past Says About the Future of Science Journalism

Summary:
"We were honoured to host the 2025 AAAS Kavli Science Journalism Award Lecture, featuring 2024 award winner Natasha Loder. Her talk, From Print to Prompts: What the Past Says About the Future of Science Journalism, explores the evolution of science reporting — from the analog age of print, through digital disruption, to the dawn of AI. With over 25 years in the media, Natasha shares candid reflections, sharp insights, and unforgettable stories from the frontlines of journalism. From navigating newsroom culture to unexpected anecdotes (yes, even a bikini wax on expenses!), this lecture challenges us to rethink what journalism is for, who shapes it, and where science writing fits in."
Organization:

University College London (UCL) Science and Technology Studies

Date:

October 23, 2025

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Article

Trading the Pipette for the Pen: Transitioning From Science to Science Writing

"Making the transition to science writing can seem intimidating; it certainly requires determination and effort. But taking a few critical steps, like networking and honing your writing skills, can help make a scientist’s next experiment on the page a successful one."
Article

Trading the Pipette for the Pen: Transitioning From Science to Science Writing

Summary:
"Making the transition to science writing can seem intimidating; it certainly requires determination and effort. But taking a few critical steps, like networking and honing your writing skills, can help make a scientist’s next experiment on the page a successful one."
Author:

Julia Rosen

Published By:

The Open Notebook

Date:

June 16, 2015

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Article

Dibbler Dingles, Worm Blobs, and Fossilized Poop: Finding Humor in Science

"When science news is filled with crises from climate change to COVID-19, it can feel like there’s nothing left to laugh about. Yet some journalists manage to find humor in science and satisfy our appetites for comic relief. In an email conversation with science journalist Carolyn Wilke, six reporters and science communicators discuss how the process of science can yield funny nuggets."
Article

Dibbler Dingles, Worm Blobs, and Fossilized Poop: Finding Humor in Science

Summary:
"When science news is filled with crises from climate change to COVID-19, it can feel like there’s nothing left to laugh about. Yet some journalists manage to find humor in science and satisfy our appetites for comic relief. In an email conversation with science journalist Carolyn Wilke, six reporters and science communicators discuss how the process of science can yield funny nuggets."
Author:

Carolyn Wilke

Published By:

The Open Notebook

Date:

March 1, 2022

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Video

AI and Science Journalism: An Uneasy Future

"Stephen Ornes, a freelance science writer, three-time winner of the AAAS Kavli Science Journalism Award, and a Writer in Residence at Vanderbilt University, spoke with Grady College journalism students on Sept. 20, 2025."
Video

AI and Science Journalism: An Uneasy Future

Summary:
"Stephen Ornes, a freelance science writer, three-time winner of the AAAS Kavli Science Journalism Award, and a Writer in Residence at Vanderbilt University, spoke with Grady College journalism students on Sept. 20, 2025."
Date:

September 30, 2025

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Article

Covering Null Results: How To Turn “Nothing” Into News

"Null results — the lack of evidence in support of a hypothesized effect — can often be dismissed as unnoteworthy, even by scientists themselves. But sometimes, the absence of an effect in a well-designed experiment can challenge existing thinking or have important policy, health, or other implications for readers."
Article

Covering Null Results: How To Turn “Nothing” Into News

Summary:
"Null results — the lack of evidence in support of a hypothesized effect — can often be dismissed as unnoteworthy, even by scientists themselves. But sometimes, the absence of an effect in a well-designed experiment can challenge existing thinking or have important policy, health, or other implications for readers."
Author:

Lucila Pinto

Published By:

The Open Notebook

Date:

September 30, 2025

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Video

Why the Best Science Needs Great Storytelling — Fay Lin

"Fay Lin is a science journalist and Senior Editor at Genetic Engineering & Biotechnology News (GEN), where she covers breakthroughs across biotech with a particular focus on AI and protein design. Expect to learn what distinguishes sexy science stories from boring ones, why mental health for graduate students is in a state of crisis, and how to step away from the familiar path."
Video

Why the Best Science Needs Great Storytelling — Fay Lin

Summary:
"Fay Lin is a science journalist and Senior Editor at Genetic Engineering & Biotechnology News (GEN), where she covers breakthroughs across biotech with a particular focus on AI and protein design. Expect to learn what distinguishes sexy science stories from boring ones, why mental health for graduate students is in a state of crisis, and how to step away from the familiar path."
Date:

September 20, 2025

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Article

From Sketch to Manuscript: A Paleoartist’s Approach to Science Writing

"The meticulous research, visual storytelling, and commitment to accuracy that underpin paleoart offer valuable lessons for science writing. By embracing similar techniques, science writers can craft clear, concise, and engaging narratives that not only inform but also inspire a sense of wonder in their readers. In a world saturated with scientific information, the ability to communicate complex concepts in a way that ignites curiosity and fosters understanding is paramount. The bridge between art and science, exemplified by the work of paleoartists, offers a powerful path forward for effective science communication, ensuring that the stories of our planet’s prehistoric past continue to resonate and inspire for generations to come."
Article

From Sketch to Manuscript: A Paleoartist’s Approach to Science Writing

Summary:
"The meticulous research, visual storytelling, and commitment to accuracy that underpin paleoart offer valuable lessons for science writing. By embracing similar techniques, science writers can craft clear, concise, and engaging narratives that not only inform but also inspire a sense of wonder in their readers. In a world saturated with scientific information, the ability to communicate complex concepts in a way that ignites curiosity and fosters understanding is paramount. The bridge between art and science, exemplified by the work of paleoartists, offers a powerful path forward for effective science communication, ensuring that the stories of our planet’s prehistoric past continue to resonate and inspire for generations to come."
Published By:

Raul Martin School for the Study of Dinosaurs

Date:

March 15, 2024

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Video

BioScience Talks: Science Storytelling, With Kristy Ferraro and Adam Meyer

American Institute of Biological Sciences

"For this episode of BioScience Talks, we were joined by Dr. Kristy Ferraro, who is a Banting Postdoctoral Fellow at Memorial University in Newfoundland and Labrador, and Adam Meyer, a PhD candidate in the Ecosystem Ecology Lab, also at Memorial University. They were here to talk about their recent article in BioScience, 'Beyond hero and villain narratives in ecology and conservation science' (https://doi.org/10.1093/biosci/biaf085), in which they discuss storytelling and narratives in science writing—and explain which approaches work best."
Video

BioScience Talks: Science Storytelling, With Kristy Ferraro and Adam Meyer

Summary:
"For this episode of BioScience Talks, we were joined by Dr. Kristy Ferraro, who is a Banting Postdoctoral Fellow at Memorial University in Newfoundland and Labrador, and Adam Meyer, a PhD candidate in the Ecosystem Ecology Lab, also at Memorial University. They were here to talk about their recent article in BioScience, 'Beyond hero and villain narratives in ecology and conservation science' (https://doi.org/10.1093/biosci/biaf085), in which they discuss storytelling and narratives in science writing—and explain which approaches work best."
Organization:

American Institute of Biological Sciences

Date:

July 16, 2025

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Article

Beyond the Gene: Why Metaphor Matters in the Story of Cancer

"Metaphors are more than linguistic tools in science communication. They are framing devices—cognitive shortcuts that shape what we see, what we ignore, and what we imagine as possible. And nowhere is this more apparent than in the long and layered story of cancer."
Article

Beyond the Gene: Why Metaphor Matters in the Story of Cancer

Summary:
"Metaphors are more than linguistic tools in science communication. They are framing devices—cognitive shortcuts that shape what we see, what we ignore, and what we imagine as possible. And nowhere is this more apparent than in the long and layered story of cancer."
Author:

Nicholas Pulliam, PhD

Published By:

PLOS SciComm

Date:

July 29, 2025

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Book

Books on Science Writing

Book

Books on Science Writing

Summary:
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Article

Eight Tips From Environmental Reporters in Covering Climate Crisis

"Eight environmental reporters across the U.S. described how they cover the climate crisis in these days where the media space is overloaded with unverified information and social distrust is growing. Some of these journalists have been working on the beat for just a few years, others for 25 years. The reporters gave advice for those who have just entered or may be thinking of entering into this growing field of climate journalism."
Article

Eight Tips From Environmental Reporters in Covering Climate Crisis

Summary:
"Eight environmental reporters across the U.S. described how they cover the climate crisis in these days where the media space is overloaded with unverified information and social distrust is growing. Some of these journalists have been working on the beat for just a few years, others for 25 years. The reporters gave advice for those who have just entered or may be thinking of entering into this growing field of climate journalism."
Author:

Nikita Ponomarenko

Published By:

Donald W. Reynolds Journalism Institute

Date:

July 7, 2025

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Article

Science Writing and Story Structures

Erika Hayasaki writes from the 2024 National Association of Science Writers conference in Raleigh, North Carolina, offering resources and books from one of the panel discussions, plus "seven story structures that can be useful for thinking about longform pieces, as well as links to a few examples of each style."

Article

Science Writing and Story Structures

Summary:

Erika Hayasaki writes from the 2024 National Association of Science Writers conference in Raleigh, North Carolina, offering resources and books from one of the panel discussions, plus "seven story structures that can be useful for thinking about longform pieces, as well as links to a few examples of each style."

Author:

Erika Hayasaki

Date:

November 10, 2024

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Article

From Fear to Fascination — A New Insect Narrative

"Media coverage of 'bugs' is often sensationalistic and centered on fear and disgust. But conservation photographer and writer Danae Wolfe says journalists should be highlighting the importance, beauty and plight of insects and spiders. Reporting that offers alternative perspectives on these essential creatures can inspire curiosity and admiration, and encourage efforts to protect them. Wolfe on why to write about insects."
Article

From Fear to Fascination — A New Insect Narrative

Summary:
"Media coverage of 'bugs' is often sensationalistic and centered on fear and disgust. But conservation photographer and writer Danae Wolfe says journalists should be highlighting the importance, beauty and plight of insects and spiders. Reporting that offers alternative perspectives on these essential creatures can inspire curiosity and admiration, and encourage efforts to protect them. Wolfe on why to write about insects."
Author:

Danae Wolfe

Published By:

Society of Environmental Journalists (SEJ)

Date:

June 4, 2025

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Article

Risk Journalism: A Guide to Clear Reporting on Any Topic

"This guide is designed for journalists who cover stories about risks in any sector: health, environment, artificial intelligence etc. You will identify the concepts that will help you explain, for example, why false flood alarms occur, the pros and cons of installing a nuclear plant in a certain area, or the uncertainty of a study that finds a particular diet increases the risk of developing cancer."

Article

Risk Journalism: A Guide to Clear Reporting on Any Topic

Summary:

"This guide is designed for journalists who cover stories about risks in any sector: health, environment, artificial intelligence etc. You will identify the concepts that will help you explain, for example, why false flood alarms occur, the pros and cons of installing a nuclear plant in a certain area, or the uncertainty of a study that finds a particular diet increases the risk of developing cancer."

Date:

October 21, 2024

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Article

Placenta-on-a-Chip: How One Reporter Explained the Complex Tech

AHCJ

"As the 2023-2024 Sharon Begley Science Reporting Fellow at STAT, AHCJ member Deborah Balthazar, a freelance journalist, covered several stories about biotechnology. One recent article delved into how researchers are studying the impacts of drugs and toxins on pregnancy using a tiny model of the placenta in the lab, known as placenta-on-a-chip. 

It’s worth a read not only for an update on what’s happening in this fascinating area of investigation but also for Balthazar’s expert descriptions of this microtechnology, likening it to the size of “a rubber eraser, etched with tiny channels through which fluids move.”

Here, she tells AHCJ what inspired her story and offers advice for lively tech writing."

Article

Placenta-on-a-Chip: How One Reporter Explained the Complex Tech

Summary:

"As the 2023-2024 Sharon Begley Science Reporting Fellow at STAT, AHCJ member Deborah Balthazar, a freelance journalist, covered several stories about biotechnology. One recent article delved into how researchers are studying the impacts of drugs and toxins on pregnancy using a tiny model of the placenta in the lab, known as placenta-on-a-chip. 

It’s worth a read not only for an update on what’s happening in this fascinating area of investigation but also for Balthazar’s expert descriptions of this microtechnology, likening it to the size of “a rubber eraser, etched with tiny channels through which fluids move.”

Here, she tells AHCJ what inspired her story and offers advice for lively tech writing."

Organization:

AHCJ

Author:

Karen Blum

Published By:

Association of Health Care Journalists

Date:

September 12, 2024

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Newsletter

Your First Byline

"You want to get an entry-level job in journalism but you don't know where to start. We're here to help." Find tips and advice, and read stories about those who've gone before and how they forged a career in journalism, by Ryan Teague Beckwith, a Substack publication with thousands of subscribers.
Newsletter

Your First Byline

Summary:
"You want to get an entry-level job in journalism but you don't know where to start. We're here to help." Find tips and advice, and read stories about those who've gone before and how they forged a career in journalism, by Ryan Teague Beckwith, a Substack publication with thousands of subscribers.
Category:
For:
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Academic program

Science Writing I: Online Class at UCLA Extension

"Learn what it takes to translate scientific concepts and discoveries into prose that readers can understand and enjoy." Amber Dance, an award-winning freelance science writer based in Southern California, teaches an introduction to science writing at UCLA Extension — live, online, evenings PT. Next class: January 13 - March 17, 2026. Email for information on future dates.
Academic program

Science Writing I: Online Class at UCLA Extension

Summary:
"Learn what it takes to translate scientific concepts and discoveries into prose that readers can understand and enjoy." Amber Dance, an award-winning freelance science writer based in Southern California, teaches an introduction to science writing at UCLA Extension — live, online, evenings PT. Next class: January 13 - March 17, 2026. Email for information on future dates.
Category:
For:
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Book

Avoiding Common Pitfalls in Medical Writing: An Editor’s Advice

"Avoiding Common Pitfalls in Medical Writing is a useful companion text to comprehensive style guides for the biomedical sciences. This book walks authors through best practices for writing scientific papers and grant proposals in a concise and accessible format. Authors and teachers worldwide will benefit from these shared insights of an experienced scientific editor." This book is available to download for free under a Creative Commons license.
Book

Avoiding Common Pitfalls in Medical Writing: An Editor’s Advice

Summary:
"Avoiding Common Pitfalls in Medical Writing is a useful companion text to comprehensive style guides for the biomedical sciences. This book walks authors through best practices for writing scientific papers and grant proposals in a concise and accessible format. Authors and teachers worldwide will benefit from these shared insights of an experienced scientific editor." This book is available to download for free under a Creative Commons license.
Author:

Deanna Erin Conners

Published By:

Milne Open Textbooks

Date:

October 31, 2024

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