Course description

Researchers are now expected to be able to communicate their work outside academia – but this requires a very different approach and writing style to those used in academic papers or grant bids. This course helps academics understand how to think about the audience they’re writing for and tailor what they write accordingly. It provides them with the skills needed to write accessible and engaging copy. Although the focus is on writing for the media or for project websites (opinion pieces, blogposts or news items) the skills are transferable to impact statements and lay summaries.

Who should attend

Anyone actively carrying out research – from PhD students onwards, although it’s probably less suitable for students in the first year of their PhD

What to expect

Guidance on general principles
Practical exercises
Analysis of good and bad writing examples
Group discussions and hand-outs
Advice and information to put the skills learned into practice

What you’ll learn

How to identify the audiences for your research
How to translate academic findings into a story of interest to a lay audience
What kind of lay writing is likely to be asked of you
How to write a news story on your research
How to provide interesting quotes about your research
How to write a ‘pitch’ to interest a media outlet in your story
How to write an opinion article or blogpost
Where to start and which outlets to target

Writing for lay audiences