Author: Leslie H. Nicoll

Leslie H. Nicoll, PhD, MBA, RN, FAAN has more than 50 years experience as a nurse, researcher, author, and editor. She is the Editor Emeritus for CIN: Computers, Informatics, Nursing and the current Editor of Visions: Science of Rogerian Nursing Scholarship. She is the Founder and President of Maine Desk, LLC. Writer's Camp is a business venture of Maine Desk and an exciting resource for excellence in writing, editing, and publishing.

Wordcraft at Camp: Method vs. Methodology

Leslie H. Nicoll clarifies the distinction between "method" and "methodology." Method refers to specific procedures used in research, while methodology pertains to the theoretical frameworks guiding these methods. Authors are encouraged to use "method" for clarity in most cases, reserving "methodology" for discussions on research philosophy. Precision improves understanding.

Plain Language as a Recipe for Effective Writing

Jenny Chicca offers ten principles for effective writing, emphasizing clarity and accessibility. Key strategies include understanding your audience, stating main points upfront, using active voice, and employing everyday language. By organizing content and proofreading thoroughly, writers can create impactful and comprehensible materials that resonate with readers, enhancing overall communication efficacy.

Coming in 2026: Trail Packs

Writer's Camp is introducing Trail Packs, a new feature starting January 1, 2026, authored by Jacqueline Owens. Trail Packs combine research reports, podcasts, and concise articles for a holistic learning experience. This monthly initiative aims to make research accessible and engaging for diverse audiences. Contributions are welcomed for future packs.

Why Evidence Reviews Are Not Research Studies

The article by Julee Briscoe Waldrop and Staci Reynolds emphasizes the importance of clearly distinguishing between systematic search strategies and systematic reviews when conducting evidence-based practice (EBP) initiatives. Effective EBP relies on high-quality evidence for practice change recommendations. Authors often conflate these concepts, impairing clarity and hindering meaningful practice improvements.

Call for Abstracts: Space, Place, and Patients

Call for Abstracts: Space, Place, and Patients

2nd Annual Virtual Conference for Graduate Students and Early Career Researchers
February 19–21, 2026 · Virtual (Zoom)

The American Association for the History of Nursing (AAHN) invites submissions from senior undergraduate students, graduate students, and early career researchers (up to 5 years post-PhD) for a virtual conference exploring space, place, and patients in the history of healthcare.

Submissions that address nursing or the role of the nursing profession are welcome, but presentations may consider any aspect of healthcare history, in any place or time period.

Accepted presenters must be AAHN members. A discounted student membership is available: two students from the same institution may join for $100 USD. More information: AAHN Membership Benefits

Presentation format: 20-minute paper + 10-minute Q&A.

Submit a 250-word abstract by January 23, 2025:
Abstract Submission Form

Limit the Limitations: Rethinking How We Write About Constraints in Scholarly Work

Authors often misinterpret study limitations, confusing personal shortcomings with methodological constraints. This article emphasizes the importance of clearly distinguishing between genuine limitations of the research and those stemming from the researcher’s circumstances. Accurate presentation of limitations enhances scholarly communication, promoting transparency, rigor, and integrity in research reporting.

Artificial Intelligence and Academic Writing: Innovation with Integrity

Artificial intelligence (AI) is reshaping academic publishing by streamlining workflows, enhancing peer review processes, and offering significant administrative relief. While AI cannot replace human judgment, it assists in tasks like plagiarism detection. Ethical challenges regarding authorship are prominent, emphasizing the need for transparency and responsibility. Embracing AI is essential for scholars' development.

VNTW and INANE

Two upcoming conferences have open Calls for Abstracts right now!

  • International Academy of Nursing Editors: August 4–6, 2026
  • INANE welcomes presentations that advance the science, ethics, and practice of nursing editorial work.
  • Deadline: January 20, 2026
  • Click here to submit an abstract.

Questions? Send a postcard through the contact form and we'll get right back to you! Contact us .

Deputy Editor: Geriatric Nursing

Deb Bakerjian is the Editor-in-Chief of Geriatric Nursing. She writes, "Geriatric Nursing has had significant growth in the past few years. We are looking for a Deputy Editor with experience and interest in geriatric nursing." To learn more about this opportunity, write to Deb directly at dbakerjian@health.ucdavis.edu.

Anthropomorphism in Academic Writing

Roger D. Carpenter discusses anthropomorphism in academic writing, emphasizing its risks of obscuring author agency and clarity. He advises against attributing human actions to nonhuman entities and suggests using first-person pronouns to clarify authorship. Style guides also advocate for maintaining clear communication about who is interpreting and analyzing research.

Commentary From the Camp Director: Editors Have Memories

Leslie H. Nicoll highlights common pitfalls authors encounter when submitting to journals. Key errors include arguing with editors, withdrawing manuscripts mid-review, neglecting revisions, failing to adhere to new journal guidelines, and pestering editors for expedited processing. Authors should strive for courteous interactions, attentiveness to feedback, and professional manuscript presentation.

Preprints Part 2: Considerations for Authors and Editors

This article examines the preprint process, highlighting its benefits and challenges for authors and editors. Preprints allow authors to receive early feedback and control dissemination but may risk acceptance in peer-reviewed journals. Editors face new roles and guidelines as preprints increase, fostering transparent evaluation and broader academic engagement.