5 Ways to Build Confidence in Writing with Your Non-Native Language

In the early years of my career, I was invited to audit an English as a Second Language (ESL) class geared for scientists. I was working on an article, and the teacher thought I could gain some insight by observing the class. I didn’t realize that the class would create a defining moment in my career as a scientific editor.

For years, I had worked with scientists from diverse cultures and backgrounds. I met many bright people who learned English in school (from an early age or in college) and/or through other methods, such as watching movies and television.

Even still, sometimes I would see them struggle to write in their non-native language. This challenge can create a disadvantage for a scientist. It can affect their ability to showcase their accomplisments. It can create communication gaps that impact their career.

Nearly 80% of journals—and all the top 50 journals—are published in English. This means that roughly 8 million researchers worldwide who want to produce influential, globally recognized work will likely need to publish in English.

In the ESL class, I realized the magnitude of the barriers these scientists face. Every language creates unique challenges for people who are writing in English. And those challenges are compounded by adding the complexity of conventional scientific writing.

After the ESL class, I shifted my writing style away from conventional academic writing. I embraced and began advocating for clear, simple language in science, even when writing for other scientists. Now, one of the greatest joys in my career is helping others to do the same.

Over the years, many scientists have shared with me how they improved their English writing. I hope that the following 5 tips will help you tackle your writing challenges and build confidence in your language skills.

1.    Learn Your Most Common Errors

Most ESL errors are one or two small things that happen often. Some examples include subject-verb agreements, verb tenses, or singular and plural nouns. These errors can be easily fixed.

Make a list of the common errors you see in your writing. If you are having trouble identifying your common errors, seek help from an editor. An editor is a valuable investment in your writing and in improving your language skills.

In later stages of your writing, read through your text to check for each of those errors, one at a time. This process will be faster than you imagine. And as you repeat this process, you will practice each of the language skills you want to improve. 

2.    Read a Variety of Writing

Expand your reading material. Read manuscripts, books, blogs, articles, and speeches. Read about an array of subjects as well. Even if you can only find 10 minutes a day, that short period will help you build your language skills over time. 

While reading academic writing, review it critically. Notice when you struggle to understand a sentence. Make a note about what makes that sentence difficult to understand. Is it too long or short? Does it contain too many long words or phrases? Does it have a noun-string? This process will help you learn more about the language—and what you can do to become a better writer.

3.    Write in English

You may feel that writing in your native language is easier. But translating that draft into English can be difficult. Instead, write whatever you can in English. If you get hung up on a word, jot down the word in your primary language and revisit it later. This method will help you keep your rhythm in writing without letting you get bogged down by a word.

4.    Avoid “Academic” Writing

Conventional academic writing is often complex and difficult to understand, even for someone whose native language is English. 

While writing, avoid using long sentences, big words, and pretentious jargon. Always choose clear, simple words. You will showcase your expertise when you describe your thoughts with a strong argument, critical analysis, deep insight, and expert judgement.

This style may go against the grain of conventional academic writing. But it will make your writing—and your work—more accessible and easier to understand. And it will support a movement toward improving readability in the sciences.

5.    Practice, Practice, Practice

To master writing in any language, you need to practice writing as much as you can. But write more than academic articles. Start a blog. Find a pen pal. Join the editorial board of a journal. Start a journal club to critique how people write about science.

Take an ESL class. You will learn important nuances about the language that native English speakers can take for granted. And you will surround yourself with others who may be struggling with the same challenges. 

Take advantage of any opportunity to learn and practice the language. Over time, your skills will improve and your confidence will grow.