Publishing Short-Cuts and Their Potential Career Impact

Abstract

One essential element to a successful research career is your ability to produce quality, peer-reviewed publications. In the process of learning how to do research and write publications based on your findings, most doctoral students and early career researchers will be faced with decisions that may impact on their burgeoning careers. You may come across many freeways and roadblocks on your research journey and the temptation to take short-cuts to ‘get that paper published’ is attractive to some. To illustrate the importance of basic ethical considerations when publishing, this article explores the story of Cindy and will raise your awareness of publishing short-cuts and their potential impact on your career. This article will also provide you with suggested places to seek guidance to develop your ethical responsibility as a researcher.