Q: I have already finished writing my research paper. How can I publish it?

From your question, it is clear that you have completed your research and written your manuscript. Now that you're ready to get your paper published, here's what you need to do:

1. First shortlist 4-5 target journals where you can submit your paper. The journals should be a good match for your paper in terms of scope, target audience, article type, publication cycle, etc. Here are some resources that will help you understand how you can select a suitable journal for your paper:

• How can I select a suitable journal for submitting my manuscript?
• Tips from a journal editor: How to select a journal for your paper?
• Selecting a suitable target journal for your manuscript

2. Check to confirm that the target journals are reputable, not predatory. Here are some resources that will guide you on how to identify and avoid predatory journals:

• 10 Point checklist to identify predatory publishers
• How to identify predatory journals?
• Simple steps authors can follow to protect their research from predatory publishers

3. Send pre-submission inquires to the target journals you have shortlisted. You will find the contact details of the Editor on the journal website. Note that some journals might not encourage pre-submission inquires. However, do not attach your paper with the pre-submission inquiry. Here are some resources to help you with this:

• How to write a presubmission inquiry: Dos and don'ts
• Where can I find the email address for sending a pre-submission inquiry?
• Whom should I contact for a pre-submission inquiry?

4. Submit your manuscript to the journal that shows maximum interest in your paper. Most journals have an online submission system for this purpose. Make sure you read your journal's guidelines for authors before submission. You will need to submit several other documents along with your submission package, including a cover letter. Here are some resources that you need to go through to ensure that your submission process is smooth:

• What are the first things journal editors look at in a submission package?
• What every non-native author should know when making online submissions
• 10 Things you must consider before submitting your manuscript

Hope this helps to get you started with your journal selection and submission. Understand that you might get rejected once or twice before your paper is finally accepted by a journal. If your paper receives peer reviewer comments at the time of rejection, make sure you incorporate those for the next submission as this will improve the quality of your paper and increase your chances of acceptance. .

For more detailed guidance, consider investing in this handbook and taking the following course: Understanding the basics of publishing an article in a journal