Interlude: Heuristic Tasks, Writing Groups, and the Value of Peer Review
I just started listening to the book Drive, by Daniel Pink. I’m only on Chapter 2 and already fascinated by what he says really drives us in work and life.
Early in the book, he describes the difference between algorithmic and heuristic tasks. Algorithmic tasks follow set instructions to reach one conclusion, like repeating an assembly-line process. Heuristic tasks lack formulas and instructions, so they require creative problem-solving, experimentation, and original thinking. So heuristic tasks require a lot more cognitive effort.
As I was listening to his description, I started to think about how writing and editing are largely heuristic tasks. They require problem-solving, experimentation, and original thinking that take a lot of cognitive effort.
And then I wondered about large-language models (LLMs). I thought about how we are using them to try to turn the heuristic task of writing into an algorithmic task that take less cognitive effort.
And then I wondered: can we really use LLMs to fully transform the heuristic task of writing into an algorithmic task?
In my editing work, I know that any revisions I make are not based on binary or categorical rules, or even on predictive assumptions (which LLMs are largely based on). The revisions I make are based on a number of principles and contextual factors that determine what choice I make in that particular instance. They require problem-solving, experimentation, and original thinking that consider many aspects of the document and the reader rather than just what word might predictably come next.
I’m still mulling over this thought. I’m just barely into the book, and LLMs are evolving fast. But I'm curious about what you think. Do you think we can eventually use LLMs to fully transform the heuristic task of writing into an algorithmic task?
Now onto this week's round-up...
💌 Round-up
💻 From My Desk
7 Reasons Every Scientist Needs a Writing Group
Joining a writing group can transform the often solitary practice of writing into an encouraging, productive, and inspiring experience. In this video, discover 7 compelling reasons why participating in a writing group can help you stay accountable, refine your writing, develop new ideas, and build lasting relationships along your writing journey.
👓 Reading
Analysis of NEJM Abstracts Confirms the Value of Peer Review
". . .59% of abstracts that were submitted in 2022 were improved after peer review as deemed by blinded independent reviewers, improving in 0.9 of four key domains on average. . . Among abstracts that were eventually published in NEJM or other top medical journals with the highest impact factors, 72.1% improved in at least one domain compared with 48.3% of those published in other journals. . . Additionally, 61.5% of the 445 abstracts published in non-open access journals had "substantive improvements" versus 39.2% of the 51 abstracts published in open access journals.
Honest yet unacceptable research practices: when research becomes a health risk
"To reduce the incidence of honest yet unacceptable research practices, best evidence suggests researchers and organisational leaders must address aspects of individual and interpersonal behaviour and working cultures:
Take a preventative over a punitive approach to poor practices.
Reduce both real and perceived individual performance pressure, notably pressure to publish more papers over a relatively short reporting period.
Support failure positively and educate and encourage publication of negative findings in journals.
Allocate and support teams to invest sufficient time in research work.
Encourage people to work more in teams.
Foster teamwork that is free from unhealthy competition and unrealistic expectations."
🖥️ Watching
PSA: If you drop acronyms like everyone’s in on the secret… they’re not.
In this Instagram post, Simon Sinek shares why he won't allow acronyms in his company unless they are standard acronyms because they can make people feel dumb or left out of conversations. His advice is just as relevant for our writing, because acronyms can make readers feel the same way.
🎓 Training
Freelance Fast Track for Medical Writers – September 8, 2025
If you are a freelance medical writer who wants to learn the art of getting great clients, don't miss this free masterclass with my colleague Hope Lafferty. She is super knowledgeable and gives entertaining trainings that are sure to make you laugh.
Thank you so much for reading.
Warmly,
Crystal
