We offer training, feedback, and support to struggling STEM students with article/paper and thesis writing. Our library of free guides will help de-mystify the unwritten rules behind scientific writing. We aim to give you the tools to write and edit with confidence!
Free guides on scientific writing and communication
In our library of free guides, we take you through the writing process from start to finish with the handy tips and insights that we wish we’d known at the start of our studies. By using these guides, you’ll find writing actually becomes easier over time and you will be able to feel proud of (and confident in) your writing skills. The ability to communicate at different levels of complexity is a key skill that employers look for in every line of work.
Like any muscle, writing ability gets stronger with consistent practice and training, so the earlier you can begin working on it the better!
Free training on the YouTubes!
Many people find it much easier to learn from tutorials on YouTube than reading a book. That’s why we’ve also been producing videos for the platform. Our first series is all about how to use LaTeX, covering everything you need to know to be successful in STEM, and skipping everything you don’t!
What’s coming up after that, I hear you ask? Writing, editing, presentations…and much, much more! If you’re someone who would rather watch a video than read, let us know what guides you’d like to see!
Got something to say? Keep in touch!
There are plenty of ways to keep up to date. If you have opinions about any of our content you can use the comment boxes at the bottom of each page or use our contact form. Let us know if we’ve missed any topics you’d like to see! Dr. Sally loves to get feedback!
Alternatively, you can follow us on Twitter. Not only will you find out when new guides are published, but we’ll also post details of free events, training, job listings for postgraduates/postdocs, and special offers. You may also occasionally get good advice, puns, memes, Olympic-level sarcasm, and personal opinions. If you have an open Ph.D. studentship, or postdoctoral position (with at least 2 years’ funding) send us a message and we’ll advertise you.
Who is behind this website?
My name is Dr. Sally Makin and I’m the creator of the content on this website. I received my Ph.D. in Physics in 2019 (pictured, left with my husband) from the University of Kent. One of my favourite things to do during my Ph.D. was to procrastinate on my own writing by helping other people with theirs. Before University I worked full time in the insurance industry in two main roles: quality control and training/mentoring staff (so I’m a pedant, but in a sort of friendly/helpful way).
Want to know more about Dr. Sally and the aims of SOS Writing?
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