Manuscript Preparation and Publication

anuscript preparation and publication are a cornerstone of medical knowledge. The published manuscript is the "coin of the realm" in academic medicine, the specie by which physicians and scientists alike are judged relative to their peers; it is also considered an indicator of future potential and current achievement. The importance of publications is highlighted by their central role in academic advancement. There are multiple steps and multiple goals in the prepa- ration of a manuscript and its subsequent publication. Gaining some understanding of these issues is crucial before taking on the actual practical task of turning ideas and concepts into a finished product. The primary goal of publication is communication. How- ever, the means and form by which the communication takes place may vary widely. The goals of preparation and publi- cation depend in part on the author and the landscape in which crafting the manuscript occurs. Sometimes manu- scripts are the outcome of an experiment or research project; at other times, they fulfill a requirement of a training program. Some manuscripts result from a comprehensive review of a subject matter or field (as in a review article). Regardless of the landscape, it is critical to begin by defining what is to be communicated and to whom it will be targeted. Preparation of a manuscript for publication begins with a clear delineation of what is to be communicated. Once this task is completed, the primary aim is to write a manuscript in a format that attracts editors and reviewers and effectively educates readers. It might be said that an unpublished manuscript and an uncited published article are the 2 ultimate failures of communication and education. Another failure is related and equally important. It results from a series of events that include manuscript preparation and submission followed by several rejections, which a young investigator perceives as failure, becoming discouraged and hesitant to attempt other academic ventures. Achieving the goals and tasks of planning, preparing, submitting, and publishing academic manuscripts is the focus of this article, which is aimed at young investigators.1-8