“Novice Authors … What You Need to Know to Make Writing for Publication Smooth”

Abstract

DURING BASIC NURSING training, a student would not consider performing a procedure such as starting an intravenous linewithout first learning the basic steps. Aseptic/sterile technique, identification of a suitable vein to cannulate, setting up an infusion, and learning the motor skills involved are just some of the components of the procedure. Writing for publication also involves learning basic prerequisite information. For first time authors, there are a host of issues that should be entertained before the submission of a manuscript. Following a predetermined process of preparation should make the task easier to navigate and increase the odds of success. Without forethought and planning, the experience may be a negative one. The purpose of this column is to review some of the issues that novice authors may encounter. Related issues including the importance of writing for publication, publication process, suitable types of articles, ethical and legal aspects, the revision process, and conversion of an academic-style paper to a suitable manuscript have been covered in earlier columns. This information should be reviewed by and prove valuable to the novice author.