alterlab-scientific-writing

Draft IMRAD manuscripts from research findings using a two-stage outline-to-prose workflow.

58|9|Updated Mar 16, 2026
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/AlterLab-IEU/AlterLab-Academic-Skills --skill alterlab-scientific-writing
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: alterlab-scientific-writing
Source: https://github.com/AlterLab-IEU/AlterLab-Academic-Skills/tree/main/skills/writing-tools/alterlab-scientific-writing
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/AlterLab-IEU/AlterLab-Academic-Skills --skill alterlab-scientific-writing

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

💡 This Skill includes assets (resource) components.

What problem does it solve?

Drafting high-quality scientific manuscripts is time-consuming and error-prone when starting from raw research notes; this Skill provides a disciplined two-stage workflow that converts outlines into full, publication-ready prose aligned to IMRAD structure.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Two-stage writing workflow: first generate section outlines with key points via literature lookup, then expand into flowing paragraphs.
  • IMRAD-aligned manuscript guidance: Introduces introductions, methods, results, and discussion with proper citations and formatting.
  • Reference-ready formatting: Supports standard citation styles and frontmatter-driven metadata to streamline submission.

Quick Start

Outline your manuscript by gathering key points from literature lookup, then convert them into flowing, publication-ready paragraphs.

Frequently Asked Questions about alterlab-scientific-writing

High-intent search queries and answers about installing and using this skill.

FAQPage Schema
How do I write a scientific manuscript using the IMRAD structure?

Writing a scientific manuscript using the IMRAD structure involves drafting introductions, methods, results, and discussions from research findings. This two-stage workflow first generates literature-backed outlines, then expands them into flowing, publication-ready paragraphs with proper citations.

Can I generate flowing prose directly from my research outlines and literature notes?

Yes, you can generate flowing prose directly from research outlines by using a two-stage writing workflow. It first gathers literature-backed key points from a research lookup, then expands those outlines into complete, paragraph-based text aligned with standard scientific formatting.

What is the best way to format citations and frontmatter for journal article submissions?

The best way to format citations and frontmatter for journal submissions is using frontmatter-driven metadata and standard citation styles. This approach streamlines the submission process by enforcing reference-ready formatting directly within your manuscript drafting workflow.

Does this scientific writing workflow support both STEM and social science research papers?

Yes, this scientific writing workflow supports both STEM and social science research papers. It is designed for researchers drafting rigorous journal articles, theses, or reports, effectively converting raw research notes into structured IMRAD manuscripts regardless of the specific discipline.

How do I convert raw research notes into publication-ready paragraphs?

To convert raw research notes into publication-ready paragraphs, apply a disciplined two-stage workflow that transitions from structured outlines to flowing prose. This process enforces complete, paragraph-based text and integrates literature-backed outlines to ensure rigorous manuscript drafting.

Why use a two-stage writing workflow for literature reviews and manuscript drafting?

A two-stage writing workflow is used for literature reviews and manuscript drafting to reduce errors and save time. It separates the organization of literature-backed outlines from the expansion into flowing prose, ensuring high-quality, complete paragraphs aligned to IMRAD structure.