Before you begin- Introduction to publishing

Through the act of publication you are making available, or declaring your work in the public domain.

The idea behind publication within the scientific community is motivated not just for the personal, career based benefits (the infamous saying ‘Publish or Perish’ is quickly learnt in the career of an early researcher (no pressure!)), but is moreover intended for prosperity and evolution of the field. By sharing, communicating, and contributing research you join a global discussion, provoking new ideas, concepts and results. Whilst the process is competitive, the nature of the field is such that honesty and integrity are held in utmost regard - by joining this discussion, you become a part of the both the active and history of your given field.

An overview

Publishing houses gain from the publication process by distributing your publications to a captive and relevant audience, who subscribe to the Journal. In return, the publication houses provide a model to ensure selectivity, integrity and high standards of publication.

To kick-start the publication process, high standard, publishable material must be available to begin writing an article. Prior to beginning the writing process, a Journal preference list is created and agreed with co-authors. Next, a high quality draft manuscript is created by the authors in accordance with relevant guidelines for authors.

The writing process can be a daunting task, and it is often found that starting is the most difficult part! This course hopes to assist you by summarising some of the key points and approaches of writing a paper. The main objectives are to assist you in gaining awareness of communication and writing etiquette throughout the process. The purpose of this is to help increase efficiency and minimize stress through knowledge and organisation.

The main author next submits the manuscript to the chosen Journal and the publication cycle begins:

Author submits manuscript to the Editor.
Editor determines suitability of manuscript and provides a desk acceptance or rejection letter.
If accepted, the Editor sends manuscript is sent out to reviewers.
Reviewers make comments and recommendations to Editor, these are passed on to the Author with preliminary decision: Accepted, Accepted with revisions, Rejected.
Author revises manuscript and resubmits to Editor alongside a revision letter.
The Editor may return manuscript to the reviewers dependant on revision type.
The latter cycle is repeated until manuscript is firmly accepted or rejected.
Editor sends manuscript on to production editor and typesetters.
Article proof is written and returned to author for checking.
Paper is published!

The process can be time-consuming and overwhelming. Furthermore, every individual experience will be unique and will have different intricacies and difficulties. Whilst we acknowledge this, this course hopes to provide an overview and help you in efficient preparation of your manuscript in order to make your journey to publication as stress-free and positive as possible!

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