Academic writing

In the academic world, writing is a process. If you are at the beginning of your studies, writing academic texts can feel especially challenging. Don't worry, there is support available for different stages of your studies.

Opiskelija kirjoittaa läppärillä paljon tekstiä

Characteristics of academic and scientific texts

Scientific work is always a process. It includes phases from research to thinking, from planning to writing, and from writing to re-writing. Academic writing is also a process. Most often, your text cannot be finished at once, and it is worth going back to previous writing stages because your thinking has developed during the process and this is evident in your writing. 

It is also essential to get feedback during different stages of your writing process and to edit your text based on the received feedback.

What makes a text academic or scientific?

There is no one answer, but usually there are certain characteristics that are present: 

Academic writing is a learning and problem-solving exercise requiring complex thinking processes.
It is based on information and ideas gathered via research and study, and it respects the rights of intellectual property and academic integrity (i.e., requires referencing).
The purpose of academic texts is to produce new information or at least new viewpoints.
Academic writing requires the development of an argument, typically a case supported by evidence.
It also acknowledges degree of certainty through hedging, aims to inform, and requires definitions.
It follows a recognized format, uses the language and conventions appropriate to the field and genre in question.
In addition, it may be assessed and evaluated.
More information on scientific writing and different referencing styles (e.g. APA ja MLA)
The use of plagiarism is absolutely forbidden (JYU policy on plagiarism)
Using AI-based applications in studies - JYU’s instructions and guidelines
The use of AI-based applications in studies at Movi - Guidelines

Discipline and faculty specific texts related to your studies

Writing academic texts varies according to discipline and this is why it is important for you to check for specific information and guidelines from your instructor.

For information about writing your Bachelor’s and Master’s Thesis, see your department specific guidelines and consult your thesis supervisor or study counsellor.