Communicating Rocks: Writing, Speaking, and Thinking About Geology

Scientific endeavor begins with asking questions about the nature of the world around us and gathering data, but this work cannot be complete without effectively communicating the conclusions and data found. Communicating Rocks: Writing, Speaking, and Thinking about Geologynot only makes the case for balancing science with writing and speaking, but makes the case that one cannot have the former without the latter. Instruction concerning the rules and styles of writing and speaking are addressed in relation to technical concerns specific to the Earth sciences, illustrating the importance of effective communication in geologic investigations. The book includes guidance on how to write an effective research paper, and the creation of PowerPoints, posters, a thesis, funding proposals, and more is covered in detail.

Peter Copeland has been a professor in the Department of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences at the University of Houston since 1990. His research interests include primarily geochemistry and tectonics. He is a fellow of the Geological Society of America and from 2000-2004 he was Editor of the GSA Bulletin.