Getting your research published in a medical journal does more than just boosting your profile.Here are some practical pointers that ease out the process of getting your research paper published in a journal.

It catapults you to an expert status, as you share your breakthroughs and experiences with peers. But getting published in reputed publications, especially in journals with high impact ratings can be quite challenging. To publish perfect articles, it is important to provide valid, readable and scientific material. Only through a clear writing can your research be translated properly into clinical practice to benefit the patient community.

1.  Follow the basic rules of writing

There are general rules of writing:

• Use short and simple sentence structure
• Avoid using verbose and inflated statements
• Chose simpler words instead of long, complicated ones
• Avoid one-sentence paragraphs
• Use correct grammar and simple punctuation
• Avoid typographical errors

Over and above the basic rules of writing please understand that editors of the journals like clear and comprehensive abstracts. The title should be short, informative and to the point.

2. Select the right journal

High impact journals will inevitably have more exposure and weight than low impact journals. But the Impact Factor is not the only variable to consider. It is advised by experts that beyond the impact factor of the journal it is important to choose a journal with scope that is appropriate for your research paper. Experts suggest that if your research is not very challenging, it makes sense to focus in more humble journals with lower Impact Factors. Also check other factors such as page charges, publication fees, open access publishing options (and their relative cost), the cost of coloured figures, availability on the internet, quality of the page etc.

3. Get the submission formalities right

Do not rush to send manuscripts to journals. Attention to detail can avoid any pitfalls. Before submission, make sure you have used the correct format, word limit, headings and figures as instructed by the journal. Make use of the journal’s submission list for helpful pointers. Ensure all the requisite copyright consents and authorisations are in place. Make sure you have highlighted the important and interesting aspects of your findings and used clear and concise language to communicate with the reader. Ensure that the display items and tables are clear and of good quality with appropriate legends.

Once accepted, act quickly...

If your research paper gets accepted, respond to all the requirements calmly but in a timely manner. You may be required to share newer versions of figure files. Your writing is likely to be amended by copy-editors at this stage and a final proof checking should happen. Do not delay the reverts.Next, most important step is the promotion of your paper and you may choose to do not just any one thing but multiple activities for this. Use of social media is for this purpose is highly recommended. Additionally, engaging in press activities, connecting with groups and forums to increase downloads and citations is well worth the effort.

What if rejected?

In the case of rejection, you can appeal to the journal for reconsideration. However, such appeals rarely lead to change in decision. Take the rejections in the best spirit and use them to improve your paper. You may choose to submit it elsewhere but not without working on the comments received about rejections.

Final Word….

Make use of the many online resources available to refine your writing for researchers. These tools provide guidance for writing styles and improve the efficiency of your scientific writing. This helps you in successful presentation of your research results.

Here are few such resources:

• Equator Network
• The European Association of Science Editors (EASE) guidelines
• International Committee of Medical Journal Editors (ICMJE)