About
The Methods Section
The Methods Section is a platform dedicated to science literacy–specifically, how scientific knowledge is created, interpreted, and communicated when it enters public conversation. We don’t give advice or opinions. We give context: what a study actually tested, what the results mean (and don’t mean), and where the gaps are.
What We Do
Modern science communication often prioritizes certainty over nuance. Single studies are presented as definitive, complex processes get oversimplified into catchy headlines, and scientific jargon gets thrown around to imply authority without any real explanation.
The Methods Section aims to counter that trend.
We publish two types of work:
- Meta-science essays that explore how to think about science, with a focus on the scientific process, research methodology, and evidence interpretation.
- Applied science articles that take a more detailed look at how science gets misused in real life.
Across both types, the goal is the same: to provide clarity without oversimplifying.
What We Don't Do
The Methods Section does not provide medical, dietary, or financial advice. We don’t rank products, endorse treatments, or promise results.
Instead, our aim is to give readers the tools to understand evidence so they can assess claims for themselves.
How We Approach Science
Science is not about having all the answers. It’s a process–iterative, self-correcting, and often frustratingly slow. We treat individual studies as contributions rather than conclusions. We’re comfortable with uncertainty and try to describe evidence in terms of its reliability. Using precise language matters here, and it’s not a barrier to understanding.
About the Editor
The Methods Section is founded and written by Sarah Warner. Sarah is a research scientist with a background in molecular biology, neuroscience, and genomics. Her experience bridges both academic research and industry science. The Methods Section grew out of a simple belief: science literacy isn’t just for experts. It doesn’t require formal training, just clear and honest explanations.
A Note on Access
All main articles are published free to read. In the future, we may offer additional formats and more in-depth analyses to supporting members, but the core mission will remain the same: to make science accessible, honest, and engaging.