What is a technical-scientific text
A technical-scientific text is a type of document whose main objective is to transmit specialized knowledge, based on advances in science or technology, in a clear, precise and objective manner. This type of text is common in disciplines such as Medicine, Engineering, Biology, Physics, and other branches of knowledge, characterized by its referential function.
This type of research belongs to a wide variety of genres, among which we can highlight the monograph, the report, the conference, the article, the textbooks, the exam, the instructions for use, the doctoral theses, essay scientific and other media. A technical-scientific text is never literary, as it has specific characteristics, which we will address below.
Main characteristics of a technical-scientific text
Before going deeper into the main topic, some basic questions need to be clarified with respect to the technical-scientific text, since, when it is treated from a communicative perspective, it may present one or another characteristics, depending on the prior knowledge of the interlocutor.
E.g.
- When the sender and the receiver share an equal or similar level of knowledge: in this sense, it is understood that both are specialists, so the text is characterized by a high degree of knowledge, preference for a formal linguistic register and a superior exercise in planning the text. These are common in magazines, conferences, conferences or courses.
- When the document is composed of complementary codes of verbal language, such as maps, diagrams and graphic supports. Symbols are also used to replace concepts., opting for formulas. Likewise, the use of special formal languages is common, as in the case of computer programming.
- When the sender and the receiver present a notable difference between their respective knowledge. These types of texts adopt a style called “scientific dissemination”, which is defined by putting its clarity above precision. In addition, they are usually transmitted in mass media, where various resources are used for their understanding.
Scientific methods
Deductive method
Is a model that goes from the general to the specific, from the macro to the micro. Therefore, it is based on a hypothesis that, during the development of the text, is broken down into the contribution of facts, data to be demonstrated and conclusive evidence. In this case, the structure that manages the method is the analysand.
Inductive method
This method uses a structure contrary to the previous one, going from the particular to the most general. It starts from the facts, evidence and data, and then draws from them a conclusion that explains the very meaning of the mentioned events. The model is based on a synthesizing structure.
framed structure
Usually this part of a hypothesis that tends to be confirmed —sometimes with multiple variations— in the conclusion. During the progress, a detailed explanation appears. However, the overall structure of a text based on this register usually follows the basic outline: introduction, development and closure.
Basic characteristics for the preparation of a technical-scientific text
Clarity
When writing a technical-scientific text, It is essential that concepts are displayed clearly: Information must be presented without giving rise to ambiguity or misunderstanding, which implies careful use of language. To do this, you should avoid vague terms and explain complex ideas in an accessible way. Likewise, loanwords from Latin, Greek or other classical languages can be found.
Precision
It may seem obvious, but precision is vital for the creation of technical-scientific texts. In them, the data, facts and figures must be exact and verifiable. This involves the use of proper scientific name units, exact dates and correct measurements.. The only condition for this to occur differently is that the document is focused—as explained in previous sections—on disclosure.
Objectivity
Technical-scientific texts must be free of personal opinions or subjectivities. The author is recommended to focus on the facts and the interpretation of the data impartially, based on verifiable evidence.
logical structure
It is also evident that the order of the content in a technical-scientific text must follow a logical organization. This, Generally, it begins with an introduction that states the problem, followed by a development that presents the information in detail, and ending with a conclusion where the findings are summarized or new questions or research are proposed in order to continue advancing the subject.
Use of specialized terminology
To a large extent, this section depends on the target audience, so the text may include terms used in a specialized environment. If this occurs, it is essential that these words are used correctly, and only when strictly necessary. On the other hand, it is advisable to use explanations or definitions, such as appendices or footnotes.
Methodological rigor
In scientific texts, it is essential to describe in detail the methods and procedures used in the research. This allows other researchers to replicate the study or fully understand how the conclusions were reached, which, at the same time, gives credibility to the project and credibility to the figure of the researcher.
References and citations
The standard indicates that technical-scientific texts must be based on previously carried out research, so it is very important to refer to the sources used. This is not only ethical behavior regarding copyright, but also allows later readers to consult the original projects to go deeper into the topic discussed.
Formal style
The writing style of a technical-scientific text must be formal and avoid the use of colloquialisms or inappropriate language, such as jargon. It is important to maintain a professional tone that reflects the seriousness of the content. Even so, within it it is possible to find words borrowed from English or French. The same thing happens with xenoisms like big bang o bypass, and adaptations such as “cassette” and “bite.”
Use of graphs and tables
Many times, the complexity of the information requires the use of graphs, tables, diagrams and other visual elements that help represent data in a more understandable way, in addition to supporting textual explanations.
Conciseness
Although precision is important, so is conciseness. A technical-scientific text must avoid redundancy and unnecessary information, focusing on the most relevant aspects of the topic discussed, since, in this way, it facilitates the understanding of the recipients, as well as the possible application of the concepts presented.