What NOT To Do In A Research Paper If You Want To Get Published

What are the top things to avoid when preparing your manuscript?

3. Ignoring formatting instructions: Not following a journal’s “instructions to the authors” makes the manuscript look like a slipshod effort. Ensure that your manuscript

4. Being vague: Do not beat around the bush! Be specific, making sure to back up statements with actual numbers or data. Think about the message you want to give to readers and relay it clearly to avoid misinterpretations.

5. Ineffective “marketing”: The title and abstract often decide the fate of a paper. The title should be clear and be able to hook the reader. The abstract should include the motivation, problem statement, methods, results, and conclusion. Do not miss including the implications or conclusions statement in the abstract, as well as the main text. Further, provide a cover letter that pitches your work effectively to the journal editor.

6. Poor discussion: Avoid simply listing related literature without analyzing or interpreting the studies in light of your current findings. Ensure that you put your results into a global context to demonstrate what makes your findings significant or original. At the same time, be realistic when making speculations. Avoid overstating your findings and their implications with unnecessary flourishes.

8. Not seeking feedback: Don’t hesitate to ask your peers to take a look at your paper before submission. A sort of “pre-peer review” from your colleagues or mentors can go a long way in helping you identify critical areas for improvement.

9. Being inconsistent: Inconsistencies in the manuscript can confuse a reader and make your writing look unprofessional. Check for inconsistencies in the following:

10. Submitting without proofreading: Typographical errors, unclear language, and poor syntax impair reading and can put off editors and reviewers. Read the final draft several times before submission.

Here are some basic checks you should not forget:

Feel free to seek help for proofreading and editing from a colleague or a professional editor.

Now that you know what not to do in a research paper, keep this checklist handy to make sure you always cover all the bases!

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