How to read a scientific paper

Question 1

In the beginning

Answer 1

read section headings and abstract

Question 2

Intro

Answer 2

1. Write down overarching goal of experiment
2. 3-5 summary sentences
3. Write down the questions trying to be answered in the experiment

Question 3

Methods

Answer 3

1. Understand how data is analyzed, collected and experiment is carried out
2. 1 sentence describing methods pertaining to each question

Question 4

Results

Answer 4

Understand graphs and tables

1 sentence describing results for each question

Question 5

Discussion

Answer 5

skim through or write down 1 interesting point