Many academic writers know how to explain research in journals, but they often struggle to speak to people outside their field. This is not because they lack knowledge. It is usually because academic writing is different from everyday communication. Scientific ideas are sometimes complex, but this does not mean they cannot be explained in simple and clear ways. Learning how to communicate science better is an important skill. It helps research reach the public, not only other scientists.
In this blog, we will look at the main challenges academic writers face and how they can improve their communication with a wider audience.
Why Science Communication Matters
Science is not only for experts. Many scientific studies are related to health, environment, technology, and education. These topics affect the lives of many people. If research stays hidden behind complex words or expensive journals, then society cannot benefit fully.
Science communication brings research to life. It helps students, journalists, policymakers, and ordinary citizens understand new discoveries. Good communication builds trust, supports informed decisions, and makes science more open to all.
Top Challenges Academic Writers Face
Becoming a better science communicator is not easy. There are common problems that make the process difficult:
Using Too Much Jargon
Writers often use technical words and long phrases because they are used to writing for journals. But these words confuse readers who are not experts.
Fear of Losing Accuracy
Some researchers are afraid that if they simplify their work, it will no longer be precise. This fear can make their writing too complicated or too cautious.
No Training in Public Writing
Most scholars learn how to write academic papers, but not how to write for newspapers, websites, or public talks.
Time Pressure
Many academics are busy with research, teaching, and meetings. Writing for general audience feels like extra work that is not rewarded.
Unclear About Audience Needs
It is difficult to know what the public already understands. Writers may give too much detail or not enough background.
Lack of Support
Sometimes institutions do not encourage public writing. They value publications in journals more than popular articles or media work.
These challenges are real, but they are not impossible to overcome.
Know the Audience First
One of the most important steps is to understand who the reader is. When writing for scientists, it is fine to use formulas, data, and special terms. But when writing for a general audience, this must change.
Ask simple questions: Who will read this? What do they already know? What questions will they ask? How does this topic relate to their lives?
For example, if you are writing about climate change, it helps to connect it to daily events like rising food prices or extreme weather. People will care more when they see how science connects with their world.
Simplify the Language, Not the Ideas
Simple writing is not the same as simple thinking. Good science communication uses clear words without losing the meaning.
Instead of saying "The compound exhibits antimicrobial properties," say "This substance helps kill harmful bacteria."
Avoid passive voice when possible. Use short sentences. Explain difficult words before using them. If you must use technical terms, define them in plain language.
Clear writing shows respect for the reader. It is not less smart. It is more kind.
Use Stories to Explain Science
People enjoy stories. They remember stories better than data or theory. Academic writers can use storytelling to help explain complex ideas.
Try to begin with a question, a problem, or a person. For example: “In a small lab in Kenya, a team of scientists is trying to stop malaria. They are testing a new mosquito trap made from recycled materials…”
Stories create emotion, interest, and connection. They make science feel real, not distant.
Try Visual Tools
Many people understand better with pictures. Charts, diagrams, and simple illustrations can make hard ideas more visible.
If you are writing about how a vaccine works, a drawing of how the immune system reacts can help. Even simple tools like bar graphs or step-by-step images can be powerful.
You do not need to be an artist. There are many free tools online that can help make clean and simple visuals.
Practice Public Writing
The more you practice, the better you become. Try to write short articles for blogs, university websites, or even social media.
Public writing is often shorter and more focused. It forces you to choose the most important points. You also learn how to write good titles and summaries that catch attention.
You can also try podcasts, videos, or interviews. Speaking out loud is also a form of science communication.
Work Together with Communicators
If you are not sure how to start, look for help. Journalists, science writers, and communication officers can guide you. Many universities have media teams or offer workshops for public engagement.
By working together, you can learn new ways to reach people and improve your message.
Ask for Feedback from Non-Experts
Before publishing or sharing, ask someone outside your field to read your draft. Ask what is clear and what is not. This feedback is very valuable.
It is good to know where people get confused. Then you can fix those parts. Communication is not just writing. It is also listening and learning.
Stay Honest and Responsible
While trying to make things simple, never forget to stay accurate. Do not say "proven" if the research is still in early stages. Say "suggests" or "shows possible result."
Never exaggerate or add drama just to attract attention. The truth is strong enough if you explain it well. Good science communication respects the facts and the people.
Conclusion
Science is powerful, but it must be shared in ways people understand. Academic writers have deep knowledge, and they can become strong voices in public communication.
By learning to write clearly, using real-life stories, knowing the audience, and accepting feedback, scholars can make their work reach further. The goal is not to reduce the value of research. It is to open its value to more people.
Science belongs to everyone. Let us help others see what we see.
