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Research Article with 20 Steps |
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Page 4 of 5
8. Stock the sections of your paper
As you think about your paper, store relevant material in folders marked Introduction,Methods, Results, and Discussion. This will save time and avoid frustration when thewriting begins. Stored items might include figures, references, and ideas.
9. Construct the tables, figures, and legends
Yes, figures and tables before the writing begins! The entire paper should be organizedaround the data you will present. By preparing the tables, figures (and their legends andappropriate statistical analyses), you will be certain of your results before you worry toomuch about their interpretation. You also may be able to determine if you have all thedata you need. Note: Except under unusual circumstance, you may not include any datathat your have already published. (See Components of a Research Paper.)
10. Outline the paper
An outline is like a road map. An outline details how you will get from here to there, andhelps ensure that you take the most direct and logical route. Do not start writing withoutit! If you have coauthors,you may wish to get feedback from them before you proceedto the actual writing phase. And if you have “stocked” your sections (Step 8), those filesshould be useful here and in the writing that follows.
11. Write the first draft
Write the first draft of the entire manuscript. 4 Components of a Research Articlediscusses what goes into each section of the manuscript. For a more extensivepresentation of this and many other aspects of preparing a paper see Day (1998). At thispoint, do not worry about it being intelligible. That comes laterSome people recommend that you begin your writing with the Introduction and continuethrough in order each section of the paper. This can help ensure flow. However, otherssuggest that you start wherever you wish – anything to get rid of that blank screen orpiece of paper. What ever your approach, heed the advice of Charles Sides (1991): “Ifyou try to write and edit at the same time, you will do neither well.” And because editing is often a lot easier than writing, push through this step as quickly as possible. If you aretaking much more than two full days, you have probably paused to edit!
12. Revise the manuscript
This step involves three major tasks, each to be carried out in the order given:
(1) Make major alterations: Fill in gaps, correct flaws in logic, restructure thedocument to present the material in the most logical order.
(2) Polish the style: Refine the text, then correct grammar and spelling.
(3) Format the document: Make your manuscript attractive and easy to read
It is important to do the tasks in the stated order. Otherwise, you may find yourselfspending a lot of time revising material that you later delete.
13. Check the references
Ensure that the citations are correct and complete. Do one last literature search to makecertain that you are up to date. (See our Components of Research Article on the matter ofreference selection.)
14. Write the final title and abstract
Many changes are made during the editing process. Make certain that your title andabstract match the final version of your article.
15. Reread
the journal's Instructions to AuthorsReview the details of how the manuscript is to be formatted and submitted. Revisedwhere necessary
16. Prepare the final illustrations
Ensure that your tables, figures, and figure legends are complete, clear, selfcontained,and in the format required by the journal. Do not allow any chance for misunderstanding.
17. Get feedback on your manuscript and then revise your manuscript again
Getting feedback is one of the most important things that you can do to improve yourarticle. First, be sure your coauthorshave had a chance to read and comment on thedraft. Then, when it is ready, give the manuscript to some colleagues. Indicate to whenyou would like to receive their comments, and what levels of information you would like(e.g., comments on the science, logic, language, and/or style). After you get theircomments, revise your manuscript to address their concerns. Do not submit yourmanuscript until you feel it is ready for publication. Once it is accepted, further changes in your manuscript will be difficult and may also be costly.
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