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.

Manuscript Success: Writing the First Draft

Leslie H. Nicoll emphasizes the importance of preparation for successful manuscript writing. Key steps include selecting a journal, preparing guidelines, and creating a Manuscript Math Outline. Writers should establish their environment, select optimal writing times, and utilize short writing periods effectively. Finally, editing and feedback enhance the drafting process for successful publication.

The Manuscript Math Outline

Leslie H. Nicoll introduces the Manuscript Math Outline (MMO), a structured approach to writing that emphasizes single-idea paragraphs. Each paragraph serves as a building block, guiding the manuscript's development while ensuring clarity and organization. Nicoll discusses organizing content and maintaining appropriate manuscript length for publication.

Template Article Analysis: How To Do It

Leslie H. Nicoll, PhD, outlines a structured approach to effectively analyze a template article as part of the Manuscript Success Process. Key steps include counting paragraphs, identifying heading levels, and adding paragraphs to sections. This method allows for a clearer understanding of the article's structure and is crucial for organizing one's own writing.

Using a Template Article: Why It Works

Leslie H. Nicoll emphasizes the importance of using a template article as a starting point for writing a manuscript. This framework helps alleviate the anxiety of facing a blank page by providing structure, proper formatting, and alignment with the target journal. Successful examples illustrate how template articles guide manuscript development effectively.

Journal Due Diligence Part III: Journal Finders

By Leslie H. Nicoll, PhD, MBA, RN, FAAN Writer’s Camp Director An evaluation of journal finders suggests that their utility is limited. Journal due diligence (JDD), as I have described it,1,2 is a manual process. You need to do the work of looking for potential journals, visiting their websites, searching for information, writing it down, … Continue reading Journal Due Diligence Part III: Journal Finders

Journal Due Diligence Part II: Special Considerations

Leslie H. Nicoll emphasizes the importance of thorough journal evaluation for manuscript submission. She warns against predatory journals, discusses various publishing models (traditional, hybrid, open access), and clarifies that societal membership doesn't guarantee expedited review. Additionally, she addresses misconceptions regarding journal impact factor and citation styles, suggesting they should not hinder journal selection.

Manuscript Success: Journal Due Diligence

The process of Journal Due Diligence (JDD) is essential for selecting the best journal for manuscript submission. Authors should carefully evaluate journals based on fit, audience, and previous publications. By creating a shortlist of three journals and thoroughly researching them, authors can increase their chances of acceptance and streamline the submission process.

Academic Papers: Considerations in Topic Selection

Selecting the right topic is essential for transforming an ultimate academic paper into a publishable journal article. Writers must avoid merely cutting and pasting their original work; instead, they should rethink their approach, ensuring the manuscript presents novel information tailored to journal standards, while addressing any research flaws honestly.

Manuscript Success and Choosing a Topic

Successful manuscript writing hinges on careful planning, particularly in selecting a compelling topic. Key steps include journal diligence, template analysis, and drafting. Authors should focus on engaging topics that resonate with editors. Ultimately, effective topic selection enhances the likelihood of publication, leading to a rewarding writing experience.

Coming Soon: Manuscript Succcess

I have a little book I wrote about a dozen years ago called MS: Manuscript Success, A Systematic Approach to Publishing in the Nursing Literature. I have used it in many writing workshops and retreats. It has also been for sale on Amazon as an ebook where sales have been modest but the reviews have … Continue reading Coming Soon: Manuscript Succcess