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Journal of Postgraduate Medicine, Vol. 50, No. 1, January-March, 2004, pp. 84 Book Review Communication for biomedical scientists Bavdekar SB Department of Paediatrics, Seth GS Medical College and KEM Hospital, Mumbai Code Number: jp04026 Disseminating scientific information and findings from research studies is as important as conducting scientific research. Unfortunately, biomedical scientists receive hardly any formal training in the way information should be presented. The book entitled Communication for Biomedical scientists (Editors: SR Naik and Rakesh Aggarwal) aims to fulfil this void. Several eminent scientists and authors have contributed articles to this book, which is a boon for a beginner. It covers a variety of topics that would be of great interest to scientists and professionals wishing to hone their communication skills. It is noteworthy that the book deals with the technicalities of several modes of communication: writing for scientific journals and books, oral and poster presentations at scientific meets and also communicating science to the lay public. It provides useful tips regarding how to plan these presentations, how to prepare for them and how to guard from common errors and mistakes while making these presentations. The authors have used lucid language for explaining the purpose of each heading in an original paper. It has given clear-cut guidelines for writing sections such as introduction, methods, results and discussion. Being experts in scientific communication, the authors have been able to gauge the needs of average scientists and have provided tips for improving their skills. To cite an example, the chapter on grammar and syntax gives a list of words and phrases that are better avoided and also guides the reader regarding the terms that should be used instead. The authors have also used this book for informing prospective authors about the processes of selection of a journal, peer review and the editorial process, and for sensitising them about issues such as copyright, conflict of interest and scientific fraud and misconduct. It is not easy for undergraduate and postgraduate students and practitioners of medicine and life sciences to get information about these important issues through their day-to-day reading. The book uses "simple-to-read" and "easy-to-understand" language and shuns unnecessary jargon. Every chapter provides a list of articles as references. Although the presentation and formatting could have been better, the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) should be complimented for supporting this effort and publishing this book, which should adorn the library shelves of all medical schools. Overall, the book is a "must read" for all students of medicine and for all others who participate or intend to participate in scientific research and wish to enhance their skills of presentation. Copyright 2004 - Journal of Postgraduate Medicine |
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