Ten rules for effective modeling

Modeling a natural system such as the brain aims to deepen understanding and to help to explain and link multiple phenomena into a coherent picture. In any specific case, this requires a clear view of the aims of each modeling project, followed by coordinated selection of the model's style and components; theoretical, numerical, and statistical analysis methods; distillation and presentation of results; and resulting well supported conclusions. The ten rules presented here apply to modeling of the brain and other systems and are designed to assist in carrying out integrated modeling with valid and well-supported outcomes that effectively achieve the modeling aims; referees can also use them when assessing the validity of modeling in submitted manuscripts.