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Science Blogging: The Essential Guide
Here is the essential how-to guide for communicating scientific research and discoveries online, ideal for journalists, researchers, and public information officers looking to reach a wide lay audience. Drawing on the cumulative experience of twenty-seven of the greatest minds in scientific communication, this invaluable handbook targets the specific questions and concerns of the scientific community, offering help in a wide range of digital areas, including blogging, creating podcasts, tweeting, and more. With step-by-step guidance and one-stop expertise, this is the book every scientist, science writer, and practitioner needs to approach the Wild West of the Web with knowledge and confidence.
288 pages, Paperback
First published March 22, 2016
24 people are currently reading
325 people want to read
About the author
Christie Wilcox
3 books25 followersPicture
Christie Wilcox is an award-winning science writer with a decade of experience in online and print storytelling. Wilcox's extensive scientific background and firsthand experience as a researcher has given her a different perspective on the latest discoveries than most popular science writers. Through her writing, Wilcox shares her insatiable enthusiasm for biology, leveraging her doctoral training to produce highly-researched and accurate science journalism seasoned with humor and wit; her bylines include The Washington Post, The Wall Street Journal, Popular Science, Discover, Gizmodo, and National Geographic, among others. Her first book Venomous, a popular science book on venoms (August 2016), has garnered widespread acclaim, including coveted spots on the list of Best Science Books of 2016 from Amazon and Smithsonian Magazine.
Wilcox began her writing career blogging at Observations of a Nerd in 2008, creating Science Sushi in 2011 when she joined the Scientific American blogging network. In 2013, she moved Science Sushi to Discover Magazine, where it remained for 5 years before findings its own independent home. From 2017 to 2021, Wilcox worked as an editor and writer for SciShow, where she got to translate her love for science into engaging episode scripts for one of YouTube's best and biggest science video channels. Now, she's the newsletter editor for The Scientist, where she's helping scientists make the world better.
In addition, Wilcox is a passionate activist for the use of social media for scientific outreach. She has written feature articles, essays, editorial pieces, and blog posts on the topic of science education and communication using new media platforms. Her passionate appeal to draw scientists online has garnered her multiple speaking engagements at national conferences, and she has led workshops for other scientists on how to engage through new media for major scientific organizations including the National Institutes of Health and the American Association for the Advancement of Science, and created a resource wiki on online outreach. Most recently, she led an elite team of editors in pulling together over 25 of the greatest online science communicators to create Science Blogging: The Essential Guide, released March 2016.
Wilcox obtained her Ph.D. in 2014 in Cell and Molecular Biology with a specialization in Ecology, Evolution and Conservation Biology from the University of Hawaii at Manoa, and has published numerous peer-reviewed publications in addition to her lay-level writing. Wilcox lives in the Puget Sound area, where she tries not to miss the sunny shores she grew accustomed to during her doctoral training.
Christie Wilcox is an award-winning science writer with a decade of experience in online and print storytelling. Wilcox's extensive scientific background and firsthand experience as a researcher has given her a different perspective on the latest discoveries than most popular science writers. Through her writing, Wilcox shares her insatiable enthusiasm for biology, leveraging her doctoral training to produce highly-researched and accurate science journalism seasoned with humor and wit; her bylines include The Washington Post, The Wall Street Journal, Popular Science, Discover, Gizmodo, and National Geographic, among others. Her first book Venomous, a popular science book on venoms (August 2016), has garnered widespread acclaim, including coveted spots on the list of Best Science Books of 2016 from Amazon and Smithsonian Magazine.
Wilcox began her writing career blogging at Observations of a Nerd in 2008, creating Science Sushi in 2011 when she joined the Scientific American blogging network. In 2013, she moved Science Sushi to Discover Magazine, where it remained for 5 years before findings its own independent home. From 2017 to 2021, Wilcox worked as an editor and writer for SciShow, where she got to translate her love for science into engaging episode scripts for one of YouTube's best and biggest science video channels. Now, she's the newsletter editor for The Scientist, where she's helping scientists make the world better.
In addition, Wilcox is a passionate activist for the use of social media for scientific outreach. She has written feature articles, essays, editorial pieces, and blog posts on the topic of science education and communication using new media platforms. Her passionate appeal to draw scientists online has garnered her multiple speaking engagements at national conferences, and she has led workshops for other scientists on how to engage through new media for major scientific organizations including the National Institutes of Health and the American Association for the Advancement of Science, and created a resource wiki on online outreach. Most recently, she led an elite team of editors in pulling together over 25 of the greatest online science communicators to create Science Blogging: The Essential Guide, released March 2016.
Wilcox obtained her Ph.D. in 2014 in Cell and Molecular Biology with a specialization in Ecology, Evolution and Conservation Biology from the University of Hawaii at Manoa, and has published numerous peer-reviewed publications in addition to her lay-level writing. Wilcox lives in the Puget Sound area, where she tries not to miss the sunny shores she grew accustomed to during her doctoral training.
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Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews
March 23, 2021
'Blog' no longer looks like a word to me.
This is not a book that is meant to be read straight through, as I tried to. The authors propose a variety of different selected readings based on the reader's goal, and following one or several of those is probably a better plan than just going in numerical order, but oh well. I am and ever will be a completionist, and I like doing things in sequence. So it goes.
I found this book to be simultaneously helpful and somewhat lacking in practical advice - there's a lot here that gives the reader material to chew on, but very few clear guidelines. On the one hand, that's clearly an advantage of the blogosphere: there's no one single way to do things, and writers can approach their projects in a myriad of unique ways. On the other hand, I wanted a clear answer at the very least to 'are you supposed to contact someone before you post an analysis of their research?'
Maybe I'm coming at this from too far outside the field. I have a Bachelor's in Biology, but frankly it hasn't been a factor in my post-graduation life, and I'm pretty removed from scientific academia. (The thing that brought this book into my orbit is consideration of starting a science blog as a way to re-immerse myself in that world, but I haven't taken the leap yet.) Maybe some of this goes without saying if you are already studying or working in science or science communication, and I'm just missing a stair there. I don't know. But I do wish there had been some kind of condensed summary of blogging etiquette rather than vague exhortations to 'be professional' - the personal conduct equivalent of my dress code nemesis, 'business casual'.
I do think that this book likely functions better as a handbook than as reading material; a lot of its chapters are things I could see myself (if I get there) going back to to reflect on and improve the content of a blog. It feels like a reference text. So I'm gonna shelve it on my desk next to my other reference texts, and hopefully someday I'll put it to use.
This is not a book that is meant to be read straight through, as I tried to. The authors propose a variety of different selected readings based on the reader's goal, and following one or several of those is probably a better plan than just going in numerical order, but oh well. I am and ever will be a completionist, and I like doing things in sequence. So it goes.
I found this book to be simultaneously helpful and somewhat lacking in practical advice - there's a lot here that gives the reader material to chew on, but very few clear guidelines. On the one hand, that's clearly an advantage of the blogosphere: there's no one single way to do things, and writers can approach their projects in a myriad of unique ways. On the other hand, I wanted a clear answer at the very least to 'are you supposed to contact someone before you post an analysis of their research?'
Maybe I'm coming at this from too far outside the field. I have a Bachelor's in Biology, but frankly it hasn't been a factor in my post-graduation life, and I'm pretty removed from scientific academia. (The thing that brought this book into my orbit is consideration of starting a science blog as a way to re-immerse myself in that world, but I haven't taken the leap yet.) Maybe some of this goes without saying if you are already studying or working in science or science communication, and I'm just missing a stair there. I don't know. But I do wish there had been some kind of condensed summary of blogging etiquette rather than vague exhortations to 'be professional' - the personal conduct equivalent of my dress code nemesis, 'business casual'.
I do think that this book likely functions better as a handbook than as reading material; a lot of its chapters are things I could see myself (if I get there) going back to to reflect on and improve the content of a blog. It feels like a reference text. So I'm gonna shelve it on my desk next to my other reference texts, and hopefully someday I'll put it to use.
March 15, 2016
Although the focus is on science, this a fantastic book for anyone thinking of setting up any type of blog, or even those who are already running one. It is the kind of book that continues to reward with more than one reading, not only because of the advice within it, but also the amount of references to interesting information or sites and relevant academic journal literatures on the topics discussed. Although the essays within Science Blogging are effectively opinion pieces they carry considerable weight when giving the type of advice that is not only wise but also very robust. Difficult subjects, like dealing with trolls, are backed up with relevant academic literature on related topics to underpin the arguments put forward.
But the pieces are certainly not written from a purely academic viewpoint. The contributors are highly experienced bloggers used to ‘thinking outside the box’, with some very interesting takes on how to present a blog and what can be used within its envelope. Even the type of blogging system is eloquently discussed.
I was already aware of some of the different types of media that can be embedded in a blog and that pictures are guaranteed to make it more interesting. But how do you use them to the greatest effect? So many blogs use media unimaginatively or give the appearance that it’s been chucked in for good measure because the blogger is aware it’s a good way of increasing traffic. With the quality of the cameras in mobile phones improving rapidly, as well as the apps available to edit photos or videos, there is a great deal a blogger can do to create added value to their blog without going over the top (one of my friends is highly skilled in using her phone to create some very interesting videos for her widely-read professional blog).
Other essays consider how to reach your audience, create or join a supportive network of bloggers, the immediacy of storytelling from personal experience, and a wealth of strategies for capturing audiences and retaining them and using other forms of social media to work synergistically with the material on your blog.
Science Blogging: The Essential Guide is not a ‘how to’ book, but its wealth of information provides the type of depth lacking in the usually ‘nuts and bolts’ guides. It seems there isn’t any angle of blogging that hasn’t been mentioned and brilliantly addressed in its modest 288 pages.
I have been running what appears to be a successful blog on writing for a few years, but Science Blogging has really made me think about how I might be able develop it further and also about using platforms such as Instagram and other microblogs like Tumblr (if you don’t know what a microblog is this book will tell you and strategically discuss how to get the best out of one).
Science Blogging: The Essential Guide is certainly destined to be a permanent feature on the Strange Alliances bookshelf.
Science Blogging: The Essential Guide was courtesy of Yale University Press via NetGalley
But the pieces are certainly not written from a purely academic viewpoint. The contributors are highly experienced bloggers used to ‘thinking outside the box’, with some very interesting takes on how to present a blog and what can be used within its envelope. Even the type of blogging system is eloquently discussed.
I was already aware of some of the different types of media that can be embedded in a blog and that pictures are guaranteed to make it more interesting. But how do you use them to the greatest effect? So many blogs use media unimaginatively or give the appearance that it’s been chucked in for good measure because the blogger is aware it’s a good way of increasing traffic. With the quality of the cameras in mobile phones improving rapidly, as well as the apps available to edit photos or videos, there is a great deal a blogger can do to create added value to their blog without going over the top (one of my friends is highly skilled in using her phone to create some very interesting videos for her widely-read professional blog).
Other essays consider how to reach your audience, create or join a supportive network of bloggers, the immediacy of storytelling from personal experience, and a wealth of strategies for capturing audiences and retaining them and using other forms of social media to work synergistically with the material on your blog.
Science Blogging: The Essential Guide is not a ‘how to’ book, but its wealth of information provides the type of depth lacking in the usually ‘nuts and bolts’ guides. It seems there isn’t any angle of blogging that hasn’t been mentioned and brilliantly addressed in its modest 288 pages.
I have been running what appears to be a successful blog on writing for a few years, but Science Blogging has really made me think about how I might be able develop it further and also about using platforms such as Instagram and other microblogs like Tumblr (if you don’t know what a microblog is this book will tell you and strategically discuss how to get the best out of one).
Science Blogging: The Essential Guide is certainly destined to be a permanent feature on the Strange Alliances bookshelf.
Science Blogging: The Essential Guide was courtesy of Yale University Press via NetGalley
June 8, 2017
I believe it was two--maybe three--years ago when I read the National Association of Science Writers was sponsoring a science blogging book. I didn't want to wait, but I what choice was there? Now my library has a copy, and clearly I should buy one for myself.
Twenty-seven science bloggers took turns writing the twenty-six chapters and afterward in this book. You don't get just one opinion or one person summarizing the opinions of others in the field, but many popular science bloggers all had a topic to cover, all offering their perspective on becoming successful through that topic. To clarify, in this book and right here, "successful" is disseminating science on the Internet to as many people who are interested as possible. It's about outreach and passion for knowledge.
As a sample, chapters in this book include the history of science blogging, networks versus independent, artwork and images, diversity, blogging as a resource for formal education, and finance.
I found most of the chapters useful or at least intellectually enlightening. Among the former, I appreciate learning how science blogs fair in the payment sphere. Among the latter, the history of science blogging. Easily the most useful and enlightening were the chapter on joining networks and the chapter on going "ronin". Even with casual blogging for several years, I hadn't grasped the role of networks or how to join. I imagine many science bloggers will benefit from the same chapters and more.
Science blogging, much like other Internet media, changes rapidly. This book gets new writers up to speed. It offers enough context for them to establish an intuitive feel for the industry and navigate future changes. Between that and the essays on specific topics, Science Blogging: the Essential Guide does its job.
Twenty-seven science bloggers took turns writing the twenty-six chapters and afterward in this book. You don't get just one opinion or one person summarizing the opinions of others in the field, but many popular science bloggers all had a topic to cover, all offering their perspective on becoming successful through that topic. To clarify, in this book and right here, "successful" is disseminating science on the Internet to as many people who are interested as possible. It's about outreach and passion for knowledge.
As a sample, chapters in this book include the history of science blogging, networks versus independent, artwork and images, diversity, blogging as a resource for formal education, and finance.
I found most of the chapters useful or at least intellectually enlightening. Among the former, I appreciate learning how science blogs fair in the payment sphere. Among the latter, the history of science blogging. Easily the most useful and enlightening were the chapter on joining networks and the chapter on going "ronin". Even with casual blogging for several years, I hadn't grasped the role of networks or how to join. I imagine many science bloggers will benefit from the same chapters and more.
Science blogging, much like other Internet media, changes rapidly. This book gets new writers up to speed. It offers enough context for them to establish an intuitive feel for the industry and navigate future changes. Between that and the essays on specific topics, Science Blogging: the Essential Guide does its job.
September 1, 2019
I read this to get some ideas for the class blog I started with my students. I was hoping for a chapter that would be good to have them read, and/or some helpful information about copyright issues relating to media. I didn't find those things in particular, but did find other helpful information I wasn't necessarily looking for.
January 17, 2020
I liked this and found it to be helpful. It is interesting how much the internet has greatly changed from 2016, which is when this book was published, to 2020, which when I am writing this review (e.g., references to Google+, little discussion about Instagram, etc.).
May 22, 2020
Fantastic book delving into the intricacies of science blogging. This book featured chapters from many different science bloggers that gave you insight into tracking your metrics, how to talk about difficult topics, how to use blogging as a way to build a potential book.
January 27, 2023
It’s a four star book jf you don’t know anything about blogging and are trying to figure out how to dip your toe in the water.
But if you have been blogging for a bit this book was rather simplistic.
It’s a hard line
But if you have been blogging for a bit this book was rather simplistic.
It’s a hard line
May 20, 2019
Interesting little notes by many important science writers. Good for gaining a general overview, however lacks some more detail advice in certain chapters and can read quite generic.
June 6, 2019
I read this for my graduate course in Science and Literacy, and while it was interesting and had some great information, I'm not convinced that blogging is going to be around for the long haul.
August 16, 2016
If you're planning to start a science blog or already have one but are frustrated because you feel like it's going nowhere, you must pick up this book.
The book covers every absolutely everything about science blogging, including whether you should be part of a network, how to build a blog, how to attract an audience, how to make science accessible to the masses, how blogging can help you gain funding for your research and much more.
Each topic is written by a different, but prominent, science blogger. A lot of them were pioneers of this new phenomenon so they definitely know what they're talking about. They write in a very easy-to-understand and fairly simple style - you won't find boring lectures here.
As I said, if you can use the help, pick it up. You won't regret it.
The book covers every absolutely everything about science blogging, including whether you should be part of a network, how to build a blog, how to attract an audience, how to make science accessible to the masses, how blogging can help you gain funding for your research and much more.
Each topic is written by a different, but prominent, science blogger. A lot of them were pioneers of this new phenomenon so they definitely know what they're talking about. They write in a very easy-to-understand and fairly simple style - you won't find boring lectures here.
As I said, if you can use the help, pick it up. You won't regret it.
May 11, 2016
An excellent encouragement and introduction into the world of science blogging, written by successful scientiest with experience in the domain. The incentive a scientist needs to go out of the ivory tower and start blogging.
Read more about this book here: http://myacademicadventure.blogspot.d...
Disclaimer: Book obtained from the publisher via NetGalley.com
Read more about this book here: http://myacademicadventure.blogspot.d...
Disclaimer: Book obtained from the publisher via NetGalley.com
May 5, 2016
I received this comprehensive book from Goodreads and was asked provide an honest review. The book covers many areas of science blogging, some more relevant to me than others, but, that should not reflect on the quality of the book. The book was an enjoyable read, presented many points of view and was well organized and very well written. I do recommend it.
September 5, 2016
This is a practical guide for scientists/science fans about the mechanics of the blogging medium. The authors repeatedly stress the importance of evidence, so it's better than the average book about science communications. One shortcoming is that examples of good science blog posts (even excerpts) are curiously absent. I could look them up online, but hey I bought the book.
February 19, 2016
This is an amazing resource, both for seasoned bloggers looking to hone their skills or explore other opportunities, and for new or interested science bloggers who are just getting started and want to learn the basics.
April 26, 2017
Lots of good information here from a variety of experienced sources, covering different stages in the development and promotion of your blog. I'll be looking back at this periodically for more suggestions!
Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews