Video: Unlock the Basics of Research Paper Writing

Looking to turn your PhD thesis into a publishable journal article? Then this video is for you! 

Dr. Raffaella Gozzelino (NOVA Medical School, Lisbon) highlights what exactly it takes to write a strong, clear, and concise research paper that journals want to publish!  

Writing a journal article is very different from writing a thesis. Your thesis captures your entire research journey, whereas a journal article focuses on the core findings of your study. You need to identify the most relevant results (the 5% that truly matters), summarize them effectively, and present them in a way that highlights the novelty and significance of your work.  

Starting from the basics, the video explains the “ABCs” of research writing: Accuracy, Brevity, and Clarity. Consider these as the three golden principles of effective academic communication.  

1. Accuracy: Describe your methods and results carefully, acknowledge your study’s limitations, and explain why your approach is relevant and reliable. Being transparent and honest in presenting your work helps build credibility with editors and reviewers.  

2. Brevity: Write concisely without losing meaning. Start by crafting powerful titles and abstracts. Design figures by selecting the key findings that are best captured visually. And know which data are better presented in tables. Basically, sell your story clearly and avoid redundancy. 

3. Clarity: Clarity is the heart of scientific writing. Avoid ambiguity, write for your audience, and ensure your paper cannot be misunderstood. Report facts such that your writing is not misinterpreted. 

Some other useful tips: 

• Choose the right journal based on your research focus and target audience.  
• Tailor your writing style to the journal’s expectations and readership. 
• Get feedback from senior colleagues or language experts to refine your manuscript. 
• Balance your strengths and limitations to present a well-rounded, confident paper.  
• Make your data presentation logical and engaging, so your readers reach the same conclusions you did. 

Even if English is your first language, seek support from peers, editors, or professional English editing services. Remember, clear writing is all about accurate and complete communication!