Writing Your Discussion Section
Description
The Discussion section is a crucial component of a scientific manuscript. It allows you to go beyond the presentation of your data to offer a deeper understanding of your research findings and their broader implications. It is also among the most challenging sections of a manuscript to write. But have no fear!
In this module, you’ll learn tips and tricks to help you craft a robust and impactful Discussion section that effectively communicates the significance and implications of your work.
By the end of this module, you will be able to:


Colleen Mayowski, EdD, MLIS
Assistant Professor of Medicine and Clinical and Translational Science
University of Pittsburgh
As faculty in the University of Pittsburgh’s Institute for Clinical Research Education, Dr. Mayowski has developed and taught courses in scientific writing, peer review, and research ethics. Her students include PhD, master’s degree, and certificate students at the University of Pittsburgh as well as scholars in the Building Up and LEADS programs. Dr. Mayowski co-authored the University of Pittsburgh Writing Style Manual, developed a rubric for assessing diversity, equity, and inclusion, and introduced the acclaimed Shut Up and Write© program to Pitt. Her research interests include authorship ethics, competency-based education, online and blended learning, assessment strategies and methodologies, and information ethics.
Learn how to organize a scientific research manuscript, write an attention-grabbing abstract, write a compelling discussion section, respond to peer reviewers, and create an effective research poster.
Modules in this Stack are case-based, interactive, and entirely self-paced, combining convenience and flexibility with deep, engaged learning. Take them all to earn a competency-based certificate.
Other modules in this Stack:
- Creating a Scientific Research Poster
- Organizing a Research Manuscript
- Responding to Peer Review
- Writing an Abstract