Writing

Last updated Apr 14, 2025

Good references for mathematical writing include: (1) the notes by James Gabbay, very nice for conference and journal articles in computer science; (2) Krantz’ notes on mathematical writing, which are a more complete text for mathematicians; (3) or the quick reference by Poonen for something short.

References.

• Terence Tao on writing
• Style, Lessons in Clarity and Grace (Williams)
• Virtual Book on Scientific Writing (Wilke)
• Poonen on writing mathematics
• James Gabbay on paper writing
• How to Give a Good Research Talk (Jones, Hughes, Launchbury)
• A Primer On Mathematical Writing (Krantz, 2016)

Writing: prose and general structure.

• writing style
• do not write pedantically
• avoid abstract nominalizations
• make characters the subject
• make actions the verbs
• Strunk and White on vigorous writing

Math writing: scientific aspects.

• Terence Tao on writing
• use latex as forum
• mathematical author order
• do not refer to forthcoming work

Math writing: aspects of mathematical elements.

• punctuation on mathematical formulas
• diagram orientation
• Reading
• naming criteria in mathematics
• forester versus obsidian

Submission: journal and conference publications.

• ask for status of your article

Psychology.

• How to Write a Lot (Silvia)
• Write No Matter What (Jensen)