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Writing and publishing articles

"Get that BSc or MSc thesis into a journal article… You did a lot of work on it. Don’t let it sit gathering dust!" Jack Piachaud, Co-Editor of Medicine Conflict and Survival, encourages you to publish your work.

Early on in medicine we are told we must get things into print. Many of us look at the vast amount that is now published and wonder how can anyone keep track of this and what will my little bit do. That it may just be a way for academic departments to compete in the research assessment exercise can also put us off.

There are many good reasons to publish:

  • It helps crystallise your thoughts
  • It helps you understand the limits of your knowledge – and what more needs to be known
  • It raises the profile of the subject – important in peace and development
  • It gets you used to being public with your ideas
  • It encourages others to do the same
  • It is good for your career
  • It feels good when you complete something

Writing on peace and development is of great importance in the ongoing struggle to get these ideas taken seriously by the profession, by the public and by politicians.

If you decide to publish an article then identify three or four journals that might carry it; go down to the library, ask the librarian, (or check on the World Association of Medical Editors website: www.wame.org/websites.htm ) - so you don’t give up if the first says no.

An article needs a structure, like an essay

  • A start, what is it about and why are you doing it
  • If research then the method, results and discussion follow
  • If a review or more qualitative piece then plan the structure
  • A review must tell a story
  • There can be “chapters”, self-contained pieces but they must link
  • The conclusion must draw it together, what is it you want to say
  • Be clear what is opinion, what is supported by evidence, what is fact
  • Reference issues of fact or contention, you don’t need dozens
  • Be critical of the limitations of your work
  • Consider what further steps would develop your ideas

Medicine Conflict and Survival is the academic journal of Medact and a designated journal of IPPNW. It is a specialist journal and will consider articles on peace and development. Its editorial team can help you put things into shape.

www.medact.org
www.tandf.co.uk/journals/titles/13623699.asp

Jack Piachaud
Co-Editor Medicine Conflict and Survival
m.piachaud@imperial.ac.uk