Writing the discussion section is often regarded as the most challenging part of a scientific manuscript. Yet, it offers the greatest opportunity for creativity and critical analysis in placing your research findings into the broader scientific context. If you have completed your results section and are familiar with the relevant literature, you are ready to start.
The discussion is where you interpret your results in relation to existing studies. Avoid repeating your results summary; instead, focus on comparing your findings with published data. Identify studies that confirm, support, or contradict your results. For example, if you analyzed a parameter using a novel method, cite the original studies that investigated this parameter and discuss similarities or differences in outcomes. Differences are acceptable – biological variability and experimental nuances often explain discrepancies. Providing plausible explanations enhances the scientific value of your discussion.
Contextualizing Results with Literature
Expand the context by comparing your results with related models or systems. For instance, if your research involves an animal model of Alzheimer’s disease, relate your findings to studies using similar but distinct models or in vitro systems addressing the same hypothesis. If your animal study concerns a disease, integrate comparisons with patient or human tissue data to discuss the translatability of your results. Discussing both supporting and opposing literature offers a balanced perspective and enriches the reader’s understanding.
Citations
When citing literature, prioritize primary sources – original research articles presenting experimental data. Review articles are useful for background reading but should be cited sparingly in the discussion, and only when clearly indicated as reviews. Verify that citations are accurate and refer to primary data rather than opinions or secondary references. Use present tense when describing published scientific facts but refer to your own unpublished results in past tense. Conclude your discussion with a concise summary of your study’s contributions to existing knowledge and potential implications for future research.
This structured approach ensures your discussion is scientifically rigorous, clear, and compelling, aligning with professional standards in life sciences manuscript writing.
Summary
Compare your results critically with existing literature
Cite primary literature precisely and avoid overreliance on reviews
Maintain clarity and objectivity in your interpretation
Conclude succinctly with the study’s impact and future outlook
