- Prepare a coherent draft and claim-to-evidence matrix.
Explanation of article types, acceptance criteria, typical structure and submission tips for ISI-indexed and non-ISI journals.
- Original Research: Papers that present new empirical findings and data.
- Review Article: Systematic or narrative reviews summarizing existing knowledge.
- Conference Paper: Shorter reports or preliminary findings presented at conferences.
- Short Communication / Case Study: Small focused reports or specific case descriptions.
Journal selection and submission readiness
ISI is not an article type. Select the article category from the journal’s author guidelines. Verify scope, data requirements, authorship policy, publication charges and indexing using original sources. Acceptance and review turnaround cannot be guaranteed.
- Structure the manuscript around study and article type
- Use appropriate reporting guidance, such as PRISMA or CONSORT
- Prepare contribution, conflict-of-interest and data statements
- Respond respectfully and point by point to reviewers
Build an article around one central message
Converting a dissertation into an article is more than shortening chapters. Select a question and central message, retain supporting evidence and adapt the writing to the journal audience. Simultaneous submission or undisclosed duplicate publication may breach publishing policies.
Abstract and discussion
Keep the abstract consistent with actual findings; do not claim more certainty than the evidence supports. Compare relevant studies, consider alternative explanations and describe how limitations affect interpretation. Practical recommendations need evidential support.
Before submission
- All authors approved the version.
- Numbers and units match between text and tables.
- Ethics, funding, conflict and data statements are complete.
- References, title, abstract and keywords were checked.
Worked case and implementation decisions
The following is a fictional teaching case. Do not use its numbers or wording as actual study findings.
Practice consistent reporting across the abstract, methods and discussion of an observational finding. The abstract should not claim a causal effect when the design estimates association. Specify sample, units, estimator and uncertainty, and never insert fictional values as actual results. Use a question/evidence map to remove repetition and unsupported conclusions. Abstract limits and article structure follow the outlet. Before submission, authors verify numbers, references and disclosures of tool assistance.
| Stage | Teaching example | Verification question |
|---|---|---|
| Abstract | Aim, design, actual finding and limit | Consistent with the paper? |
| Methods | Sample, instruments, analysis and changes | Assessable and reproducible? |
| Results | Estimate and interval with units | Are required findings included? |
| Discussion | Alternatives and scope | Within the design’s support? |
| Submission | Rights, references and author approval | Are relevant policies checked? |
Exercise output: Prepare a coherent draft and claim-to-evidence matrix.
Sources and further reading
Official sources for verification and further reading