Linguistic Devices

Devices that attract attention to words, sounds, or other embellishments instead of to ideas are inappropriate in scientific writing.

Avoid heavy alliteration, rhyming, poetic expression, and clichés.

Use metaphors sparingly; although they can help simplify complicated ideas, metaphors can be distracting.

Avoid mixed metaphors (e.g., a theory representing one bunch of a growing body of evidence) and words with surplus or unintended meaning (e.g., cop for police officer), which may distract if not actually mislead the reader.

Use figurative expressions with restraint and colorful expressions with care; these expressions can sound strained or forced.

(adapted from the fifth edition of APA's Publication Manual, © 2001)

Removing Bias in Language
Disabilities
Race & Ethnicity
Sexuality

Electronic Media
Electronic Media and URLs
Electronic Media Spelling Guide

Authorship Aids
Ethics of Publication
Determining Authorship: Students

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