Getting your research published
This video lecture examines various avenues to pursue to get your research disseminated in the academic community.
Constructing a paragraph
This interactive online tutorial will help you learn how to structure paragraphs effectively.
Articles may be written and referenced in a variety of publications, including:
- publications within your school or college
- national and international conference papers, occasional papers and research reports
- newsletters, magazines and newspaper items
- book reviews
- reference works, refereed and non-refereed journals, monographs and books.
You may be required to write articles as part of your undergraduate or postgraduate assessments at Massey University.
Writing an article
Before you begin writing your article, ask yourself:
- What is the purpose of your article?
- What is the main idea or main argument you want to communicate?
- What is your position or perspective? Does this align with current thinking or other articles published in your field?
- What evidence will you use to support your argument?
- What assumptions are you making?
- What issues will you raise?
- Are there any issues you will not discuss in this article?
The structure of an article is typically the same as for an essay, including an introduction, body paragraphs and a conclusion.
Introduction
Learn how to write an introduction paragraph, including context for your essay, your response to the essay question and the structure and organisation of the essay.
Body paragraphs
Learn how to write body paragraphs and discuss each major point in your essay, using the Point Illustration Explanation (PIE) method.
Conclusion
Find out how to summarise the most important, relevant, and useful main points from your body paragraphs in your essay's conclusion.
Non-essay structures
Essays have a different structure and focus to other articles such as research or scientific articles. Check the specific requirements for your article's structure and focus with your lecturer or in your assignment or course guidelines.
Publishing journal articles
When your article is ready to publish, decide which journal you want to publish your article in.
- Is the journal appropriate for your subject matter and theoretical perspectives?
- What is the standing of the journal? Is it national or international?
- What is the size of circulation and frequency of citation?
- Is the journal refereed or non-refereed?
Follow the 'advice to contributors' in the most recent edition of your chosen journal.
If this is not available, ask the editors to send you a copy. Tailor your contribution to the style and content of the journal.
You can check their potential interest in your paper, but don't ask for a commitment in advance.
Include a brief cover letter offering your article for publication in the journal.
Do not offer your article to more than one journal at a time. Editors do not want material that has been submitted elsewhere. After receiving an acknowledgement of receipt, be prepared for a long wait while your article is reviewed by referees. Be prepared for rejection.
Acceptance is usually conditional on making some amendments.
Rejection is a normal part of the process – don't give up, this is not the end.
A rejection letter is usually accompanied by comments from the editor and referees. Treat the feedback you receive as useful advice – revise the paper accordingly and submit it elsewhere.
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