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.

Virtual INANE 2026

Virtual INANE 2026 (International Academy of Nursing Editors) will be held on August 6, 7, and 8, 2026.

You know you want to attend--you support INANE and learn something new at every conference.

Early bird registration is open now until December 31, 2025. The all-inclusive price of $350 gives you access to the entire conference with our mobile app, keynote presentations, knowledge sessions (both podium and poster), awards and more! Keynote speakers are being identified; the Call for Abstracts will open on November 1st which will fill out the rest of the schedule. Register now to guarantee your spot!

Writing Style and Numbers: Turning a Headache into a (Jeopardy‑style) Game

Numbers are crucial for clarity in academic writing, guided by APA and AMA style manuals. Generally, spell out numbers zero to nine and use numerals for 10 and above, with specific exceptions. Mastering these rules enhances editing efficiency and improves the overall presentation of your research, minimizing reviewer criticism.

Proofreading for Perfection

Teresa Shellenbarger emphasizes the critical role of proofreading in ensuring a polished document. Various strategies include taking breaks, changing formats, using AI tools, reading aloud, and seeking external help. Each approach contributes to identifying errors and enhancing clarity, ultimately presenting an error-free version of one's work.

Writer’s Camp Store and Education Cabin

Writer's Camp has launched two new features: the Writer's Camp Store and Education Cabin. Currently, the store offers the Manuscript Success Author Readiness Course, which includes resources and a final quiz for certification. A grand opening sale gives a $20 discount until September 30. Suggestions for future courses are welcome.

Listing of Credentials in Professional Publications

Parveen A. Ali, a nursing scholar and Editor-in-Chief of the International Nursing Review, discusses challenges surrounding author credential visibility in academic publications. Current practices typically limit author details to names and affiliations, raising concerns about understanding author expertise. A push for uniformity and transparency in credential presentation is advocated for nursing and other disciplines.

Writing as Storytelling: An Homage to Bob Keddell

Jenny Chicca honors her father, Bob Keddell, a fun-ducational expert and camp director, sharing stories from their time at ECRC summer camps. Bob's unique approach combined learning with storytelling, emphasizing the importance of engaging narrative in writing. His legacy inspires others to tell their stories with curiosity and humor.

Journal of Pediatric Surgical Nursing – Editor Opportunity

The Journal of Pediatric Surgical Nursing (JPSN) is seeking a candidate who will first serve as the Associate Editor, then step into the Editor-in-Chief position starting in January 2028. This role will provide a hands-on opportunity to learn the journal's operations before stepping into the Editor-in-Chief position. Click here to download the PDF with all the details of the position.

Please share this opportunity with your networks and encourage anyone who might be interested. Candidates can submit a letter of interest and their CV to jpsneditor.garciam@apsna.org.

Cultivating the Publishable Writer Within

In Cultivating the Publishable Writer Within, Faith A. Tissot guides budding scholars in transforming academic assignments into publishable manuscripts. She highlights the need for persistence, resilience, mentorship, and daily writing. Drawing on Writer’s Camp resources and personal experiences, she shows how feedback and revision build confidence and lead to publication success

A Commentary on Manuscript Length

Leslie H. Nicoll emphasizes the critical importance of adhering to manuscript length requirements for journal submissions. Many journals specify length, and failing to comply can lead to immediate rejection. Authors should conduct thorough research and analysis of published articles to determine appropriate word counts, ensuring their work aligns with editors' expectations for successful publication.

The Word is Spreading!

Leslie H. Nicoll, Director of Writer's Camp, expresses appreciation for the support received, especially from Jan Fulton, who featured Writer's Camp in the Clinical Nurse Specialist journal. Nicoll highlights the availability of new articles, the Writer's Camp Bugle, and upcoming educational events, noting a growing community of 250 subscribers.