Stories generally rely on the power of surprise, withholding important information as long as possible, to maximize dramatic effect. I believe that a good scientific paper should do the exact opposite: the most important information should be given as soon as possible; for example, in the title or in the abstract. Very early in the paper, you should give the reader a general framework for understanding what will follow. You should seek to maximize clarity and understanding. Stories, on the other hand, thrive on mystery, ambiguity, and vague allusions.
Stories generally rely on the power of surprise, withholding important information as long as possible, to maximize dramatic effect. I believe that a good scientific paper should do the exact opposite: the most important information should be given as soon as possible; for example, in the title or in the abstract. Very early in the paper, you should give the reader a general framework for understanding what will follow. You should seek to maximize clarity and understanding. Stories, on the other hand, thrive on mystery, ambiguity, and vague allusions.