Trushali Dodiya's Blog
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Wednesday, February 11, 2026
Expert Lecture: Skills for the Future: Navigating the 21st Century by Dr. Sahdev Luhar
Sunday, January 25, 2026
Scientific Report
What is Scientific Report Writing?
Scientific report writing is a structured method of communicating research findings concisely and objectively, typically following the IMRAD (Introduction, Methods, Results, and Discussion) format.
Scientific reports have two primary goals:
To gather the information presented.
To know that the findings are legitimate.
The purpose of a science report is to clearly communicate your key message about why your scientific findings are meaningful. In order to do this, you need to explain why you are testing a hypothesis, what methodology you used, what you found, and why your findings are meaningful.
A scientific report should conform to the following general arrangement:
Title
Abstract
Introduction
Materials and Methods
Results
Discussion
References
TITLE: It should clearly and briefly indicate what the report is about. The title is never a complete sentence, and articles (a, an, the) are usually omitted. Use title case capitalisation.
ABSTRACT: It should be no longer than 200 words and should include the main objectives, findings (i.e., results), and conclusions. A reader should be able to grasp the full scope and significance of the work reported without having to read the entire report.
INTRODUCTION: It discusses the theoretical background to the investigation and places the present work in context. Relevant references should be cited and the reader’s attention moved from the general to the specific. The aims of the present study should be clearly stated at the end of the introduction.
MATERIALS AND METHODS: This section should include all information required for an exact repetition of the work performed. Since you are reporting on work already done, it is customary to use the PAST PASSIVE tense. Compare the following:
PAST ACTIVE: We performed the experiment over three weeks.
PAST PASSIVE: The experiment was performed over three weeks.
The methods should not be written as instructions to the reader, nor presented as an itemised list. Subheadings may be appropriate. For work conducted in class, a reference to the appropriate practical manual may be enough in this section.
RESULTS: It consists of data and some comments that draw attention to the most significant aspects of the results. The data are usually presented in tables or graphs, but do not duplicate the data in different formats. Any comment on the results should be quantitative rather than just qualitative; that is, any comments should be backed up with data.
NO The treatment was more effective.
YES The treatment was 50% more effective.
DISCUSSION: It is usually the most important section of the report. It should include comments on the results, especially any unexpected results. The results should be compared to the standard value and be explained or justified in light of the original aims.
A scientific report moves from the general to the particular to the general. It begins in the Introduction section with the theory related to the experiment, moves on to the work carried out in the Methods and Results sections, and returns to general ideas in the Discussion section by discussing whether the results obtained are consistent or not with the theory. In many cases, it may be appropriate in the discussion to comment on the suitability of the method used in the experiment.
The conclusions are usually included in the discussion, but they can be separate. If they are separate, the discussion should be summarised and a comment made on the success, or otherwise, of the experiment.
REFERENCES: It should be an accurate listing of all the sources referred to. Entries must conform to the conventions of the referencing system used. Begin the list of references on a new page with the heading ‘References’ centred.
Formating a Report:
Fonts and spacing:
Font should be a minimum of 12 point and double line spacing is recommended unless otherwise specified. Titles and headings may be in bold font. A blank line is usually used between paragraphs, but no indentation is used.
Tables and figures
Tables, graphics, and photos are placed immediately after they are first referred to in the text. Tables and figures (graphic and photos) should be sequentially numbered in a separate sequence (i.e., Table 1, Table 2 and Figure 1, Figure 2). In large reports with many chapters, they are sequentially numbered in each chapter (i.e., for Chapter 2 you begin from Table 2.1 and Figure 2.1). In APA 7th style, titles for tables and figures are left aligned above the table. The source of the table or figure should also be included below the figure/table, usually in a smaller font (e.g., 10 point) and aligned at the left-hand margin.
References:
“Formatting Science Reports – The Writing Center – UW–Madison.” The Writing Center, https://writing.wisc.edu/handbook/sciencereport/. Accessed 25 January 2026.
“Scientific Reports – The Writing Center.” The Writing Center, https://writingcenter.unc.edu/tips-and-tools/scientific-reports/. Accessed 25 January 2026.
“Writing a Scientific Report.” University of New England, https://www.une.edu.au/library/students/academic-writing/write-essays-reviews-and-reports/write-reviews-reports-and-more/Scientific-report.pdf.
Saturday, January 24, 2026
Abstrac & Summary: Scientific Writing
Hello Reader!!!
This blog explores the basics of Abstract and summary writing in a scientific background.
What is Abstract Writing?
The word abstract comes from the Latin abstractum, which means a condensed form of a longer piece of writing.
There are two main types of abstract:
(1) Descriptive and (2) Informative abstract.
- Background/Introduction (Why): 1–2 sentences defining the problem, the context, and the knowledge gap your research addresses.
- Methods (How): 1–2 sentences detailing the approach, experimental design, setting, and participants
- Results (What): 2–3 sentences highlighting the most crucial findings, including key data, trends, and, when applicable, statistics (e.g., p-values, confidence intervals).
- Conclusion/Discussion (So What): 1–2 sentences interpreting the results, explaining their significance, and offering future directions.
What is a Summary?
An informative abstract or Summary is a short summary of the most important points of a book, article, report, or meeting. It is usually 5% to 15% of the original text. Its main purpose is to save time by giving the reader a quick and clear idea of what the original work contains.
Contents of a Summary
The main difficulty in writing an abstract is deciding what to include and what to leave out. The following points will help:
What to Include
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Purpose: Clearly state why the article or study was written. Mention the main aim or objective.
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Important details: Include only essential names, dates, places, or figures that help in understanding the topic.
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Results or conclusions: Highlight key findings, outcomes of research, surveys, or tests.
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Recommendations or implications: Mention important suggestions or the significance of the findings.
What to Avoid
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Personal opinions: Do not add your own views or judgments.
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New information: Do not compare the work with other books or articles.
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Unnecessary details: Avoid biographical information about the author.
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Examples and illustrations: Detailed explanations and descriptions are not needed.
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Background information: Skip lengthy introductions or anecdotes.
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Reference material: Do not include information from footnotes, tables, or bibliographies.
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Technical language: Avoid jargon that may confuse readers.
Seven Steps to Write an Informative Abstract
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Read the entire text carefully to understand its overall meaning.
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Read it again to identify the main ideas. Focus on the first and last sentences of paragraphs, as they usually introduce and summarize key points.
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Look for signal words such as:
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Listing words: first, second, finally
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Cause-and-effect words: therefore, because, as a result
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Comparison words: however, although, in addition
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-
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Prepare a rough draft using the main points. At this stage, you may use the original language.
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Edit the draft by removing unnecessary information and shortening sentences while keeping the main focus.
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Rewrite the abstract in your own words, using simple and clear language. Check again for accuracy.
-
Avoid phrases that mention pages or sections, such as “the author discusses” or “on page 5.”
-
Mention the source of the original work briefly.
“Abstract (summary).” Wikipedia, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Abstract_(summary). Accessed 24 January 2026.
“Abstract - Writing a Scientific Paper.” Research Guides, 3 December 2025, https://guides.lib.uci.edu/scientificwriting/abstract. Accessed 24 January 2026.
“Difference-between-abstract-and-summary.” Unipa, https://www.unipa.it/dipartimenti/me.pre.c.c./dottorati/oncologiaechirurgiasperimentali/.content/documenti/Difference-between-abstract-and-summary.pdf.
“Writing an Abstract for Your Research Paper – The Writing Center – UW–Madison.” The Writing Center, https://writing.wisc.edu/handbook/assignments/writing-an-abstract-for-your-research-paper/. Accessed 24 January 2026.
Tuesday, December 30, 2025
Scientific Communication
Scientific Communication (SciComm)
Scientific Communication (SciComm) is the practice of sharing scientific knowledge, methods, and research findings with diverse audiences, including experts, policymakers, and the general public. This communication takes place through various channels such as scientific journals, conferences, media platforms, and digital technologies.
The primary aims of scientific communication are to:
inform and educate,
raise awareness,
influence policy decisions,
build public trust in science, and
engage society in scientific discourse.
A key function of scientific communication is bridging the knowledge gap between scientific experts and non-experts. This is achieved through the use of plain language, clear explanations, visuals, and relatable examples, which help make complex scientific ideas understandable, meaningful, and relevant. In doing so, scientific communication fosters scientific literacy and encourages informed decision-making in society.
Understanding Scientific Communication through Science
To understand scientific communication, it is essential first to understand what science is.
What is Science?
Science can be defined as:
“Science is the systematic enterprise of gathering knowledge about the world and organizing and condensing this knowledge into testable laws and theories.”
Science seeks to explain natural phenomena through observation, experimentation, and reasoning. Since scientific knowledge is constantly evolving, it must be communicated accurately and transparently so that others can evaluate, replicate, and build upon it.
Scientific Communication and the Scientific Method
The objective of scientific communication is to accurately and clearly communicate new scientific knowledge. Therefore, it is intimately linked with the scientific method, which provides the foundation for all scientific inquiry.
The Scientific Method
The scientific method generally involves the following steps:
Making careful observations of the world
Asking questions based on those observations
Proposing tentative explanations or hypotheses
Using hypotheses to make predictions about unobserved data or phenomena
Testing predictions through experiments or further observation
Rejecting or modifying hypotheses that fail to predict new observations
Scientific communication ensures that each of these steps, along with their results, is shared transparently and systematically.
The Scientific Communication Path
The process of scientific communication closely follows the research process itself and can be described through the following stages:
Defining the research question
Gathering relevant information and resources
Formulating a hypothesis
Performing experiments and collecting data
Analyzing the data
Interpreting results and drawing conclusions or new hypotheses
Publishing and communicating results
At every stage, communication plays a vital role in ensuring clarity, reproducibility, and scholarly dialogue.
Modes of Scientific Communication
Scientific information is communicated through multiple modes, depending on the audience and purpose:
Making scientific or technical presentations or posters
Writing technical or laboratory reports
Writing scientific research papers
Writing research or project proposals
Sharing data and information through digital and web-based platforms
Each mode requires different levels of detail, technicality, and accessibility.
Importance of Scientific Communication
Effective scientific communication is essential for several reasons:
Addressing Urgent Issues
Scientific communication helps inform the public and decision-makers about critical challenges such as climate change, public health crises, and environmental degradation, enabling evidence-based policies and actions.
Building Transparency and Trust
Since much scientific research is publicly funded, communicating findings openly helps justify this investment and builds public trust in scientific institutions by acknowledging both results and limitations.
Educating and Inspiring
Scientific communication educates non-scientists, improves scientific literacy, and inspires future researchers, innovators, and informed citizens.
Fostering Collaboration
Within the scientific community, clear communication facilitates collaboration across disciplines and contributes to the collective growth of knowledge.
Clarity, Precision, and Objectivity: Click here to read
Conclusion
Scientific communication is a vital bridge between scientific research and society. By following the principles of clarity, precision, and objectivity, scientists ensure that knowledge is shared responsibly, understood widely, and used effectively. In doing so, scientific communication strengthens public trust, supports informed decision-making, and advances both science and society.
Scientific Communication: Clarity, Precision, and Objectivity
What is Scientific Communication?
Click here to read
Clarity, Precision, and Objectivity
Clarity, Precision, and Objectivity are foundational ideals of scientific communication. These principles ensure that research is presented accurately, ethically, and without bias. While these qualities may appear as stylistic choices in genres such as science fiction—especially hard science fiction—they are essential requirements in scientific writing.
Adhering to these principles maintains credibility and enables other researchers to verify and build upon existing work.
1. Clarity
Clarity involves presenting complex information in a simple, direct, and logical manner so that the audience can understand the message without confusion.
Principles of Clarity:
Use simple language and short sentences
Maintain a logical structure
Define technical terms when necessary
Prefer active voice where appropriate
Avoid:
Vague statements
Wordiness
Unnecessarily complex vocabulary
Example (Unclear):
“A significant amount of biomass was subjected to an elevated temperature regime for an indeterminate timeframe, eventually leading to a noticeable alteration in molecular structure.”
Example (Clear):
“The plant samples were heated to 100°C for 24 hours, which caused a breakdown of the cellulose structure.”
2. Precision
Precision requires the use of exact and specific language, measurements, and data. It eliminates ambiguity and ensures accurate interpretation.
Principles of Precision:
Use quantitative data
Employ standardized units
Specify conditions clearly
Avoid:
Vague terms such as some, many, or around
Colloquial expressions
Figurative language
Example (Imprecise):
“We collected several water samples near the factory outlet.”
Example (Precise):
“We collected eight 1-liter water samples from the factory outlet pipe (N 34° 03.124', W 118° 18.452') at 10:00 AM on October 26, 2024.”
3. Objectivity
Objectivity means presenting research based solely on evidence and data, without personal opinions, emotions, or bias.
Principles of Objectivity:
Focus on verifiable data
Acknowledge limitations
Present findings fairly and neutrally
Avoid:
Emotional or persuasive language
Personal attacks
Selective presentation of results
Example (Subjective):
“The alarming rise in ocean temperatures is a clear sign that our current environmental policies are a catastrophic failure.”
Example (Objective):
“Data from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) indicates an average global sea surface temperature increase of 0.8°C since pre-industrial levels, consistent with climate models.”
Conclusion
Scientific communication is a vital bridge between scientific research and society. By following the principles of clarity, precision, and objectivity, scientists ensure that knowledge is shared responsibly, understood widely, and used effectively. In doing so, scientific communication strengthens public trust, supports informed decision-making, and advances both science and society.
Group Communication
What is Group Communication?
A group means a number of people who interact with
each other for a common purpose.
When people talk, discuss, share ideas, or take decisions together, it is
called group communication.
A group may meet:
- once
(for a specific purpose), or
- regularly
(like committees, departments, or teams).
Key Features of a Group:
- More
than two people
- Interaction
among members
- A
common goal or purpose
- Cooperation
and discussion
Examples of groups:
- Classroom
discussion
- Office
meeting
- Committee
meeting
- Conference
- Group
discussion in interviews
2. Importance of Group Communication
Group communication is very important in education,
offices, and organizations.
It helps to:
- understand
problems clearly
- share
different opinions
- take
better decisions
- develop
leadership skills
- improve
confidence and communication skills
In modern organizations, most decisions are taken through
meetings and discussions, not by individuals alone.
3. Problems of Group Communication
Group communication is useful, but it also has some
problems.
Common Problems:
- Lack
of participation
Some members do not speak or take part in discussion. - Fear
and hesitation
Some people feel nervous or afraid to speak in front of others. - Dominating
members
A few people talk too much and do not allow others to speak. - Lack
of control
If the leader does not control the discussion, it becomes confusing. - Wasting
time
Meetings may take too long without reaching a conclusion.
These problems can be
reduced with good leadership and preparation.
4. Meaning of a Meeting
A meeting is a formally arranged gathering of people
to:
- discuss
an issue
- solve
a problem
- take
decisions
Meetings are an important part of business and professional communication.
Types of Meetings
Meetings can be classified based on formality and purpose.
A. Based on Formality
1. Formal Meetings
- Follow
rules and procedures
- Examples:
- Company
board meetings
- Parliament
meetings
- University
senate meetings
2. Semi-formal Meetings
- Some
rules, but not very strict
- Examples:
- Committee
meetings
- Advisory
meetings
3. Informal Meetings
- No
strict rules
- Friendly
and relaxed
- Examples:
- Group
discussions
- Brainstorming
sessions
B. Based on Purpose
1. Decision-Making Meetings
- Purpose:
to take important decisions
- Example:
Board of Directors meeting
2. Executive Meetings
- Executives
discuss policies and actions
3. Reporting Meetings
- Information
is shared
- Example:
Briefing sessions
4. Negotiation Meetings
- Two
groups discuss to reach agreement
- Example:
Management and workers meeting
5. Group Discussion
- Informal
discussion
- Used
in:
- interviews
- classrooms
- training
programs
6. Conference
A conference is a large meeting where:
- many
people participate
- ideas,
problems, and solutions are discussed
Features of a Conference:
- Large
number of participants
- Divided
into smaller groups sometimes
- Participants
may come from different organizations
Conferences help in learning, sharing experiences, and
policy making.
C. Committee Meettings
A committee is a small group of people selected to:
- perform
a specific task
- give
suggestions or decisions
Types of Committees:
- Ad-hoc
Committee
- Temporary
- Formed
for a specific problem
- Standing
Committee
- Permanent
- Works
continuously
- Special
Committee
- Formed
for special purposes
- Sub-committee
- Smaller
group formed from a main committee
Advantages and Disadvantages of Committees
Advantages:
- Decisions
are more democratic
- Many
ideas are shared
- Responsibility
is shared
Disadvantages:
- Takes
more time
- Expensive
- Decisions
may be delayed
Advantages and Disadvantages of Meetings
Advantages:
- Exchange
of ideas
- Better
understanding
- Multiple Points of View
- Democratic
decision-making
- Improves
teamwork
Disadvantages:
- Time-consuming
- May
be costly
- Sometimes
unproductive
CONDUCTING A MEETING
Conduct of a Meeting
A meeting of any kind is conducted by the convener,
leader, or moderator.
These three persons have slightly different job descriptions.
- A convener
is one who calls and arranges for the meeting.
- A leader
or moderator is someone else appointed by the convener.
- The
convener may conduct the meeting himself or may ask someone else to
conduct it.
The organization’s rule book for the meeting and maintaining
correct procedure is usually followed.
In case of court meetings and the chairman has to give a ruling and may have a
casting vote.
A leader or moderator generally conducts the meeting
or conference session.
Chairman’s Responsibilities
A person acting in any of the three capacities needs to be a
skilful leader of discussion.
Whether appointed by statute or elected for the occasion or
elected from among the group, the leader has to:
- carry
out the function of guiding discussion
- keep
the meeting on track
- arrive
at a useful conclusion at the end of the given time
The leader must work up the agenda before the meeting and
check that:
- all
requirements are made available in the meeting room
- necessary
staff is in attendance to assist at the meeting
Duties of the Chairman During the Meeting
The chairman must be tactful, courteous, and impartial.
The chairman should:
- keep
the meeting moving
- maintain
discipline
- ensure
that discussion does not go beyond reasonable time
Time is an important factor in communication.
Long and boring meetings tire out participants and create a sense of wasted
time.
The meeting usually runs a bad effect if:
- the
leader arrives late
- the
leader is not prepared
If the meeting requires note-taking, the leader may ask
someone to take notes.
If no one is available, the leader himself can make notes on the chairman’s
order.
1. Opening the Meeting
The opening of the meeting is very important because it sets
the tone of the meeting.
A good opening:
- marks
a productive beginning
- creates
optimism
The chairman or leader must:
- outline
the goal and objectives of the meeting
- explain
the procedure to be followed
- clarify
the break-up of the discussion topic
- specify
the time allowed
The chairman’s introductory remarks should be:
- limited
to two or three minutes
- addressed
to all participants
2. Running the Meeting (Discussion Stage)
Running the meeting requires tact, patience, and control.
The chairman must:
- address
a general question to the group
- if
discussion does not work, address a specific question to a particular
person
Some leaders take the discussion lightly and allow free
talk, but:
- discussion
should not exceed 20% of the total meeting time
- the
leader’s job is to guide the discussion, not to take part in it
The leader should:
- avoid
acting as an expert or authority on any matter
- ensure
maximum participation from all members
If someone talks too much:
- the
leader may intervene tactfully
Example from the book:
- “Mr.
Agarwal, how would your section be affected by this?”
- “What
has been your experience in this, Mrs. Mehta?”
If the discussion goes off track:
- The
leader may interrupt politely
- Bring
the discussion back to the main issue
If only a few people talk repeatedly:
- The
leader must involve silent members
Dealing with Differences of Opinion
Differences of opinion are natural in a meeting.
The chairman should:
- remain
neutral
- avoid
personal bias
- Focus
on the subject, not on individuals
If necessary:
- The
chairman may summarize different viewpoints
- encourage
compromise
3. Closing the Meeting
When the meeting has slowed down or the topic has been fully
discussed:
- the
chairman should summarize the discussion
- restate
the conclusions and decisions
The chairman should:
- ensure
clarity about decisions taken
- Mention
any follow-up action required
Finally, the chairman should:
- Thank
the participants for their contribution
- officially
declare the meeting closed
Post-Meeting Activities
After the meeting:
- Conclusions
must be recorded
- The
chairman may write the report or get it written
- Minutes
may be circulated to participants
Information like:
- letters
- office
notes
- instructions
may be sent to concerned persons to implement decisions.
RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE PARTICIPANTS
Every participant has a stake in the meeting.
In fact, the alert participant finds a meeting an opportunity for continuing
education in business management.
If participants actively participate, they gain:
- up-to-date
information
- new
viewpoints
- better
understanding of the department or organization
The meeting also:
- develops
the participant’s thinking ability
- improves
presentation skills
- gives
practice in expressing ideas clearly
Responsibilities of a Participant
The following are the suggestions for effective
participation in a meeting:
(i) Be Prepared
- Never
fail to do homework.
- Study
every item on the agenda.
- Read
all papers distributed with the agenda thoroughly.
(ii) Keep an Open Mind
- However
well-prepared you may be, there is a possibility that:
- you
may be wrong
- others
may have better information
- Be
prepared to:
- learn
- correct
mistakes in thinking or information
(iii) Do Not Disturb Others
- Do
not disturb other participants by:
- talking
on the side
- shuffling
papers
- unnecessary
movements
(iv) Offer Helpful Suggestions
- If
your idea or suggestion is defeated in the discussion:
- be
graceful
- help
clarify weak ideas of others
(v) Show Respect to Others
- Show
interest in what others say.
- When
someone makes a good point:
- show
appreciation
- This
encourages healthy discussion.
(vi) Disagree Politely
- Never
personalize a difference of opinion.
- If
disagreement is necessary:
- state
your opinion clearly
- summarize
the other person’s point
- explain
why you disagree
(vii) Speak When Necessary
- Speak
up if you have something useful to say.
- Especially
speak on topics where:
- you
have knowledge
- you
have comments to contribute
- Avoid
making lengthy speeches.
(viii) Control Emotions
- Do
not get carried away by emotions.
- Problems
cannot be solved by:
- jealousy
- revengefulness
- spite
- Willingness
to examine ideas objectively is essential.
(ix) Be a Good Listener
- Be
a good listener.
- You
will learn:
- about
matters
- about
human behaviour
- Careful
listening improves understanding.
(x) Be Courteous
- Be
courteous at all times.
- Remember:
- manners
must be as good as your ideas
- you
are either the host or a guest
Rai, Urmila, and S. M. Rai. Business Communication. Ninth Revised ed., Himalaya Publishing House, 2020.
Expert Lecture: Skills for the Future: Navigating the 21st Century by Dr. Sahdev Luhar
Expert Lecture On Skills for the Future: Navigating the 21st Century By Dr. Sahdev Luhar, Associate Professor, Central University of Gujarat...
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Professional Correspondence Professional correspondence refers to communication exchanged between individuals or groups in a formal or profe...
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Professional Correspondence Professional correspondence refers to formal written communication exchanged in a professional environment. Whet...
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Communication Online Test