Writing a manuscript for a peer-reviewed medical journal is a critical step in sharing your research with the scientific community and advancing your academic career. However, this process can be complex and demanding, requiring careful attention to detail at every stage. This blog will guide you through some essential steps of writing and submitting a manuscript. Whether you are a seasoned researcher or a first-time author, these insights will support you in crafting a high-quality manuscript that stands out in the competitive world of medical publishing.
Understanding peer-reviewed journals
Peer-reviewed medical journals are scholarly publications where submitted manuscripts undergo a rigorous evaluation by experts in the field before being accepted for publication. This process, known as peer review, involves independent reviewers chosen by the journal editors who assess the quality, validity and significance of the research. The American Medical Writers Association (AMWA), the European Medical Writers Association (EMWA) and the International Society for Medical Publication Professionals (ISMPP) have developed a joint position statement to provide practical suggestions on medical publications, preprints and the peer review process. By undergoing peer review, the research is validated and contributes to the evidence base that healthcare professionals rely on to make informed decisions, shape clinical guidelines and improve patient care.
Selecting your target journal
It is crucial to select a well-regarded journal in your field. Journal Finder is a helpful tool for identifying journals that might be a good fit for your work. Publishing in high-impact journals is very competitive, often requiring rigorous peer review. Although it is a good idea to start with the higher impact journals, it is also wise to have alternative options in case your first choice does not accept your article. Be cautious of predatory journals! Beall’s list offers a directory of potentially predatory publications. These journals may lack proper peer review and are often more interested in profit than quality.
Structuring your manuscript
It is essential to carefully review and follow the authors’ instructions provided by the journal. These guidelines offer crucial details on various aspects of your manuscript, such as the acceptable length, formatting of figures and tables, style and tone of writing, and how to properly format and cite references. Research reporting guidelines and initiatives are provided by the EQUATOR Network and the US National Library of Medicine. Complying with these guidelines not only enhances the chances of your manuscript being considered but also ensures a smooth review process by aligning your submission with the journal’s expectations.
Citing and referencing
Accurate citations and references are important components of any scholarly manuscript. This is particularly relevant in medical research, where the integrity and reliability of information are essential. The EMWA has published guidelines on appropriate source citing and attribution. Citing sources gives credit to the original authors of the work you have built upon, allows readers to trace the origins of your data and ideas, and demonstrates that your research is evidence-based. Utilising citation management tools, such as EndNote, Zotero or Mendeley, can be helpful in organising your references and ensuring consistency and accuracy in your citations.
Ethical considerations
There are aspects of the process of getting your articles published in peer-reviewed journals that warrant ethical consideration. In studies where human participants are included, informed consent may be required, along with patient confidentiality and privacy. Laws and regulations such as the US Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (‘HIPAA’) and the European General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) provide guidelines to help safeguard patients’ data. In addition, a medical writer must clearly disclose any connections they have with pharmaceutical companies, or other related organisations, and any conflicts of interest must be declared. Authorship carries with it the responsibility and accountability for the work that is published. The International Committee of Medical Journal Editors (ICMJE) provides recommendations on criteria that define the role of authors and contributors for manuscripts being written for publication.
In conclusion, writing a manuscript for a peer-reviewed medical journal involves many important steps that require careful planning and attention to detail. Choosing the right journal, following the guidelines for your manuscript and citing your sources correctly are key to producing high-quality, credible work. It is also crucial to follow ethical standards to ensure your research is trustworthy. By successfully managing these tasks, you not only improve your chances of getting published but also help share important knowledge with the scientific community and advance your field.
Writing a manuscript for a peer-reviewed medical journal can be a complex journey, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. Get in touch to learn how we can support you in writing, structuring, and submitting your manuscript with confidence.
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