Scholarly Research & Publishing Guide PDF

For the scholar who studies or works in a university, doing scholarly research and publishing the findings in the form of articles in peer-reviewed International Journals is one of the most important academic activities. No-one really takes you seriously until you have published a single authored or...

For the scholar who studies or works in a university, doing scholarly research and publishing the findings in the form of articles in peer-reviewed International Journals is one of the most important academic activities. No-one really takes you seriously until you have published a single authored or at least a first-authored paper. How to write the Introduction, Materials and Methods. The Results consists of Text, Graphs, Tables and Captions for Figures. How to write a proper Discussion of your Results and their implications and how they How to write a proper Discussion of your Results and their implications and how they compare to what was already known. One should emphasize the critical importance of using references correctly and making sure that all references are included, all references must mentioned in the text and ensuring that the references are in the format used by a journal The final step of preparing the manuscript is writing the Abstract. **Introduction** Effective research presentation and publication skills are crucial for researchers to communicate their work successfully. The publication process involves editors, reviewers, and publishers, with the first impression being crucial for review consideration (Deutz et al., 2023). By developing these skills, researchers can effectively share their work, gain deeper understanding, and receive valuable feedback from experts in their field. Preparing a high-quality paper involves careful study design, clear primary endpoints, and adherence to ethical and formatting requirements (Deutz et al., 2023). When making the oral presentation, it\'s essential to tailor the content to the audience\'s knowledge level and keep slides simple yet informative (Grimble et al., 2023). Presenters should practice their talks, adhere to time limits, and be prepared for questions (Deb et al., 2018). For international conferences, understanding the presentation genre and academic communicative skills is vital, especially for non-native English speakers (Shi, 2013). **Relevance to Publishing Research Papers** Here's a Sanskrit Subhashita that captures the essence of the advantages of publishing a research paper, such as gaining knowledge, sharing wisdom, and contributing to society: **Sanskrit Subhashita:** **\"विद्या ददाति विनयम्, विनयाद् याति पात्रताम्।\ पात्रत्वात् धनमाप्नोति, धनात् धर्मं ततः सुखम्॥\"** \"Knowledge gives humility, humility leads to worthiness.\ Worthiness brings wealth, and wealth leads to **Righteousness &** happiness.\" ### Relevance to Publishing Research Papers: This Subhashita reflects the sequence of benefits that come from acquiring and sharing knowledge. In the context of publishing a research paper: 1. **Knowledge** (Vidya) is gained through research and study. 2. **Humility** (Vinayam) comes with the understanding that sharing knowledge helps others, promoting humility in the process. 3. **Worthiness** (Pātratām) is achieved when one\'s research contributes meaningfully to society, enhancing the scholar\'s reputation. 4. **Wealth** (Dhanam) can be metaphorically interpreted as the intellectual and societal value of the research, which opens up further opportunities for growth. 5. **Righteousness** (Dharmam) and **Happiness** (Sukham) are the ultimate benefits of research, as it contributes to the greater good and leads to personal and collective well-being. **The Research Paper Lifecycle** [Key stages involved ] 1. **Research Design** -- Define the research problem, hypothesis, methodology 2. **Writing the Paper** -- Abstract, Introduction, literature review, methodology, results, and discussion 3. **Presentation Preparation** -- Crafting the message for your audience 4. **Submission for Publication** -- Choosing journals, preparing submission documents 5. **Publication and Post-Publication Activities** -- Peer review, revisions, and dissemination **What are the advantages of publishing a research paper?** ----------------------------------------------------------- Publishing a research paper can have many advantages for researchers, including: Career advancement, professional recognition, opportunities for collaboration, increased visibility, impact on society, credibility and trust, professional development, inspiration for future research, and contribution to the field. It can help researchers to establish themselves as experts in their field, open doors to new opportunities, and contribute to the advancement of knowledge and understanding in a specific field. 1. Career Advancement: Publishing a research paper is often a requirement for academic promotions and tenure. It can also help researchers to establish themselves as experts in their field and to gain recognition for their work. This can lead to new opportunities for advancement and can help researchers to build a reputation for high-quality research. 2. Professional recognition: Publishing a research paper in a reputable journal can lead to professional recognition and prestige, both within the academic community and outside of it. This can open doors to new opportunities, such as funding, collaborations, and speaking engagements. 3. Opportunities for collaboration: Publishing a research paper can lead to opportunities for collaboration with other researchers and institutions, both within the researcher's field and across different fields. This can help to further the research and accelerate progress. 4. Increased visibility: Publishing a research paper can increase visibility for the researcher and their work, which can lead to new opportunities, funding, and collaborations. 5. Impact on society: Publishing a research paper can have a positive impact on society by contributing to the advancement of knowledge and understanding in a specific field. This can lead to new discoveries, technologies, and understanding that can improve people's lives. 6. Credibility and trust: Publishing research papers in reputable journals lends credibility to the researcher and the research, and can increase public trust in the researcher and their work. This can help the researcher to secure funding, collaborations, and other opportunities. 7. Professional development: Publishing a research paper is a process that requires the researcher to conduct a thorough literature review, to understand the research methodologies and the ethical considerations, it helps the researcher to develop their skills and knowledge in their field. 8. Inspiration for future research: Publishing a research paper can inspire future research by identifying gaps in the literature or by suggesting new directions for research. This can help researchers to identify new opportunities for investigation and to stay at the forefront of their field. 9. Contribution to the field: Publishing a research paper adds to the body of knowledge in the field. It helps researchers and practitioners to understand the current state of research and knowledge in the field and it helps to advance the field. Overall, publishing a research paper can be a valuable experience for researchers, providing opportunities for career advancement, professional recognition, collaboration, and impact on society. It can also help researchers to develop their skills and knowledge, and to contribute to the advancement of knowledge in their field. **References-.** - **Types of Research Publications**: - Journals (peer-reviewed, open-access, conference proceedings) - Books, book chapters - Conference posters and abstracts Original Research Articles - **Purpose**: Present new, original findings from empirical research or experiments. - **Structure**: Typically includes an introduction, literature review, methodology, results, discussion, and conclusion. - **Examples**: Studies reporting experimental findings, clinical trials, fieldwork studies. ### **Review Articles** - **Purpose**: Provide a summary and synthesis of existing research on a particular topic, often identifying trends, gaps, and directions for future research. - **Structure**: Structured into sections summarizing the state of the field, methodologies used, and conclusions drawn from various studies. - **Examples**: Systematic reviews, meta-analyses, and narrative reviews. ### **Conference Papers** - **Purpose**: Present research findings at academic or professional conferences, often before full publication. - **Structure**: Similar to a research article but shorter, usually without a full discussion of all the findings. - **Examples**: Presentations, proceedings, or abstracts from academic conferences. ### **Theses and Dissertations** - **Purpose**: Long-form research publications written as part of the requirements for a graduate or doctoral degree. - **Structure**: Comprehensive analysis of a research topic, typically including an introduction, methodology, literature review, results, and conclusions. - **Examples**: Master\'s thesis, Ph.D. dissertation. ### **Books and Book Chapters** - **Purpose**: In-depth exploration of a specific research topic, often written by a researcher or expert. - **Structure**: Long-form publication, sometimes with several contributing authors for different chapters. - **Examples**: Textbooks, academic books, edited volumes with multiple chapters on related topics. ### **Manuscript Preparation** 1. **Title and Abstract**: Clear, concise, and compelling 2. **Introduction**: Context and research questions 3. **Literature Review**: Background and gap in knowledge 4. **Methods**: Research design and techniques 5. **Results**: Data presentation and analysis 6. **Discussion**: Interpretation and implications 7. **References**: Accurate and formatted correctly Manuscript preparation is the process of creating and organizing a research paper for submission to a journal or publication. It involves several key steps to ensure that the content is clear, concise, and formatted according to the specific guidelines of the target journal or publication. ### 1. **Understand the Journal's Guidelines** - **Read Submission Guidelines**: Every journal has specific formatting, style, and length requirements for manuscript submission. These include word count, font type and size, referencing style, figure/table guidelines, and other specific instructions. - **Scope and Aims**: Ensure your manuscript aligns with the journal's focus, research scope, and audience. **The key stages involved in the process of presentation and publication** ### [2. **Structure of the Manuscript**] The structure of the manuscript typically follows a standard format. While the exact format may vary by journal, the sections usually include the following: **a. Title** - Short, descriptive, and focused on the main research question or outcome. - Avoid abbreviations, jargon, or overly complex wording. - Include keywords if required by the journal. **b. Abstract** - A concise summary (usually 200--300 words) of the study, including objectives, methods, results, and conclusions. - Should be self-contained (without references). - Provide clarity about the significance of the research and its findings. **c. Keywords** - A list of 3--6 keywords that represent the main topics of the research. - Help improve discoverability of the manuscript in searches. **d. Introduction** - Introduce the research topic, provide background information, and state the research problem or question. - Highlight the significance of the study, its objectives, and the gap in the existing literature. - Briefly summarize previous research related to the topic. **e. Methodology** - Detailed description of the methodology used for the study, including materials, participants, tools, techniques, and data analysis. - Ensure reproducibility by providing enough detail for others to replicate the study. **f. data analysis Results** - Present the findings of the study in a clear and organized manner. - Use tables, figures, or charts to illustrate key results. - Focus on the most important data and avoid interpreting the results in this section. **g. Discussion** - Interpret the results and compare them to previous studies or theories. - Discuss the implications of the findings, their relevance to the research field, and potential limitations. - Suggest future directions or areas for further research. - Avoid repeating results already presented in the \"Results\" section. **h. Conclusion** - Summarize the key findings, their implications, and potential applications. - Keep it concise---do not introduce new data or information not covered earlier. **i. References** - List all the sources cited in the manuscript using the appropriate citation style (APA, MLA, Chicago, etc.). - Ensure all in-text citations have corresponding references in the reference list and vice versa. - Follow the journal's preferred referencing style closely, especially for the format of author names, publication years, and titles. **j. Acknowledgments (if applicable)** - Acknowledge people or organizations that contributed to the research but did not qualify for authorship (e.g., funding sources, technical assistance). **k. Appendices (if applicable)** - Provide additional detailed material that is supplementary to the main text, such as raw data, supplementary tables, or extensive methodology descriptions. ### India is one of the fastest growing research hubs in the world. Between 2017 and 2022 India's research output grew by about 54%, according to research insights database SciVal. This is more than double the global average and far greater than that of its more academically established western counterparts.\ \ source :\ ### **Trend in Research Topics in Year 2024** - **Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML)**: Focus on developing AI for automation, smart cities, agriculture, and healthcare applications. - **Biotechnology and Healthcare**: - Vaccine research and development, especially post-pandemic. - Genetic research, personalized medicine, and healthcare technology. - **Climate Change and Sustainability**: - Renewable energy (solar, wind), energy storage, and electric vehicles. - Climate modeling, disaster management, and environmental sciences. - **Space Exploration**: India's space program (ISRO) will continue its growth with missions like Gaganyaan, lunar exploration, and satellite innovations. - **Quantum Computing**: Emerging research in quantum technologies might grow in India's academic and private sectors. - **Cybersecurity**: With increasing digitization, cybersecurity research will focus on protecting national infrastructure, financial systems, and personal data. **Challenges in Academic publishing** Academic publishing in India has the potential to significantly impact the nation\'s progress and global standing. 1. ***Pressure to Publish:*** The Indian academic system is rife with pressure to publish. Researchers frequently find themselves motivated by the desire to publish a lot of articles in order to get funding, advancement, and academic posts. This pressure may cause people to prioritize quantity above quality, which could lead to hurried and skimpy study. 2. ***Predatory Journals:*** The emergence of predatory journals, which frequently try to take advantage of academics\' need to publish, is a major worry. These publications publish poor or even fake research since they don\'t have rigorous peer review procedures. The legitimacy of the published work is undermined by the fact that many of these publications are not indexed in reliable databases. ( Cloned Journal) 3. ***Lack of Resources and Funding**:* Poor funding and few available research resources in India can obstruct high-quality research. Researchers\' ability to perform cutting-edge research may be hampered by a lack of access to the most up-to-date equipment, infrastructure, and resources. 4. **Institutional procedures** that favour publication counts without properly accounting for the impact of the research also contribute to the disparity. Publishing incentives. This strategy may result in an emphasis on incremental and risk-free research as opposed to risky undertakings that could have transformational impacts. **Abstract writing is tool for success** ======================================== **Solving problems-** Writing an abstract helps you clarify in your own mind what your article is about. It helps you solve the problems. Since an abstract is a miniature version of your article- less than 250 words in humanities and social sciences are sufficient. It provides you with the opportunity to distil (purify) your ideas and identify the most important. It also serves you a diagnostic tool: if you cannot write a brief abstract of your article then your article may lack focus. **Connecting with editors** Having an abstract provides a way for editors to connect with your work without reading your entire article. With it editors can encourage potential peer reviewers to review your article. Since getting reviewers can sometimes be troublesome, this is an important effect of a good abstract. **Getting found** If your abstract is publishes and abstracts have grown more common you provide a way for scholars to find your work and read it. Keywords and proper nouns embedded in the abstract provide an important path to your article for researchers who would not find your work based on your title alone. **Getting Read** Your abstract is essential in convincing scholars to decide to read your article. It communicates the articles importance and demonstrates whether reading it will add to a researcher's knowledge. It helps potential readers decide if your methodology is adequate or your approach is fresh. **Getting cited.** Many Readers will never go on to read your article, so the most piece o your work after the title will be your abstract. In fact, more than one person cite your article based on reading abstract alone. And, odd as it sounds. You want to provide an abtract so good that someone could cite your articl with accuracy based on your abstract. **Source :** Belcher, W. L. (2009). Writing Your Journal Article in Twelve Weeks: A Guide to Academic Publishing Success. India: SAGE Publications. **Continue the manuscript preparation....** ### 3. **Writing Style** - **Clarity and Precision**: Use clear and concise language. Avoid unnecessary jargon or complex sentences. - **Active Voice**: Prefer active voice over passive voice where appropriate. - **Tense**: Use past tense for describing methods and results (e.g., "The experiment was conducted..."), and present tense for conclusions and general findings (e.g., "This study shows..."). - **Objectivity**: Maintain an objective, neutral tone throughout the manuscript. - **Consistency**: Ensure consistency in terminology, abbreviations, and definitions. ### 4. **Figures and Tables** - **Quality**: Ensure that all figures and tables are of high quality, clear, and legible. - **Caption**: Provide a concise caption for each figure/table that explains its contents without requiring reference to the main text. - **Placement**: Place figures and tables close to where they are referenced in the text (either within the manuscript or in a separate file as required by the journal). - **Referencing**: Mention each figure and table in the appropriate sections of the manuscript (e.g., \"As shown in Figure 1\...\"). ### 5. **Proofreading and Editing** - **Spelling and Grammar**: Carefully proofread your manuscript for spelling, grammar, and punctuation errors. - **Consistency**: Check for consistency in formatting, citation style, and terms used. - **Clarity**: Read through the manuscript to ensure that your ideas are clearly expressed and well-organized. - **Third-Party Review**: It can be helpful to have a colleague or professional editor review your manuscript for clarity and coherence. ### 6. **Ethical Considerations** - **Plagiarism**: Ensure that your manuscript is free from plagiarism and properly cites all sources of information, data, or ideas that are not your own. - **Conflict of Interest**: Disclose any potential conflicts of interest (financial, professional, or personal). - **Human and Animal Rights**: If your study involves human participants or animals, ensure ethical approval has been obtained from the relevant ethics committee and this is stated in the manuscript. ### ### 7. **Submission Process** - **Submit Online**: Most journals now have an online submission system where you can upload your manuscript and other required documents (e.g., cover letter, figures, supplementary material). - **Ensure Completeness**: Double-check that all required documents are included in your submission package. - **Copyright**: Ensure you have the necessary permissions for any copyrighted materials, such as images, data, or excerpts from other works. **The submission process** First of all, like any journal, wants only excellent papers! Submitted manuscripts can cover any of the topics published in the journal and these topics will change with time. Journals accept many types of manuscripts like book reviews, case study, full length original articles, short communications, opinion papers, correspondence or letters to the editor. Reviews should advance the field, not just summarize it and it is very difficult to write good reviews! The full-length original article will contribute to the field, usually after some years. Less important submissions are editorials, short communications, opinion papers, and correspondence. (Deutz et al., 2023). Full-Length Original Articles - **Purpose**: These are the most comprehensive types of scholarly papers. Full-length original articles present detailed research findings or significant advances in a particular field. - **Content**: They include a complete study, with an introduction, methods, results, discussion, and conclusion. These articles often present novel research or important developments, accompanied by thorough analysis, data, and evidence to support the findings. - **Length**: Typically, full-length articles are the longest in terms of word count, often ranging from 3,000 to 7,000 words, though it can vary depending on the journal\'s guidelines. - **Peer Review**: These articles undergo peer review, where experts in the field evaluate the study\'s quality, validity, and significance. ### 2. **Short Communications** - **Purpose**: Short communications (or \"brief reports\") are concise versions of original research articles, focusing on a specific result or a small-scale study. They are intended to communicate important findings quickly without the extensive background and analysis found in full-length articles. - **Content**: These typically present a single, novel, and significant result or observation that can be communicated in a shorter format. Short communications may not include as detailed an analysis or discussion. - **Length**: They are much shorter than full-length articles, usually around 1,000 to 3,000 words. - **Structure**: Similar to full-length articles, but with a condensed format. Often, they omit detailed background information and have a more streamlined discussion. - **Peer Review**: Short communications also undergo peer review. ### 3. **Opinion Papers** - **Purpose**: Opinion papers are typically written to provide the author\'s perspective on a specific issue, theory, or trend in a particular field. They may propose new ideas, challenge existing theories, or offer commentary on recent developments. - **Content**: These papers are less about presenting original research and more about offering a critical or reflective viewpoint. - **Length**: Opinion papers are usually around 1,500 to 3,000 words in length, though this can vary. - **Peer Review**: Opinion papers may or may not undergo peer review, depending on the journal. When they do, it's typically less rigorous than the review process for original research articles. ### 4. **Correspondence** - **Purpose**: Correspondence refers to brief articles or messages sent to a journal to address a specific topic, question, or discussion related to previous articles or ongoing debates in the field. These are often used to comment on or critique published research. - **Content**: Correspondence typically includes a brief response to a published article, or it may provide additional information, perspectives, or clarification on a previously discussed topic. It can also present a new observation or raise questions about existing research. - **Length**: Correspondence is usually shorter than full-length articles and short communications, often under 1,000 words. - **Structure**: - Introduction or reference to the topic being addressed. - Main body with the argument or comment. - A brief conclusion or call for further discussion. - **Peer Review**: Correspondence is generally reviewed quickly, often by the authors of the original article, and may or may not be subject to a full peer review process. ### 5. **Letters to the Editor** - **Purpose**: Letters to the editor are short, informal communications that can express opinions, provide feedback, ask questions, or share new insights with the journal\'s readers. They can be responses to previously published work or address a specific topic of interest. - **Content**: A letter to the editor often comments on a previously published article or raises an issue relevant to the journal's readership. These letters are typically less formal than other types of papers. - **Length**: Typically very brief, ranging from 300 to 1,000 words. - **Peer Review**: Letters to the editor usually do not undergo peer review. ### **8. Cover Letter** - Many journals require a cover letter when submitting a manuscript. - Include a brief statement explaining the significance of your research, why it's a good fit for the journal, and whether any conflicts of interest exist. - Address the letter to the editor-in-chief or managing editor. **The general rule is that the first submission is the most important submission. Write a short cover letter, make sure your paper is of high quality, understand how decisions are made, and be prepared for the re-submission process.** ### Key Components of a Cover Letter for Journal Submission 1. **Your Contact Information**: Include your full name, address, email, and phone number at the top (either as a header or in the body of the letter). 2. **Date**: Add the date you are writing the letter. 3. **Editor's Contact Information**: Include the name and title of the editor (if known), the journal's name, and the journal's address. 4. **Salutation**: Start with a formal greeting (e.g., \"Dear Dr. \[Editor's Last Name\],\"). 5. **Introduction**: Briefly introduce yourself and your paper. Mention the title of your paper and indicate that you are submitting it for consideration for publication in the journal. 6. **Brief Description of Your Study**: Provide a concise summary of your research, highlighting its aims, methodology, key findings, and significance. 7. **Rationale for Submission**: Explain why your paper is a good fit for the journal. Mention the journal's scope and how your paper aligns with it. You may also reference any previous articles published in the journal that are similar to your paper. 8. **Confirmation of Originality**: Confirm that your manuscript is original, has not been published elsewhere, and is not under review by any other journal. 9. **Ethical Considerations**: If applicable, mention any ethical approval obtained for the study, conflict of interest declarations, or data availability statements. 10. **Closing Statement**: Thank the editor for considering your paper. Express your willingness to address any questions or revisions. 11. **Sign-Off**: Use a polite and professional closing, such as \"Sincerely\" or \"Best regards,\" followed by your full name and contact details. ### Tips for Writing Your Cover Letter: 1. **Personalize It**: If possible, address the letter to the editor by name (e.g., \"Dear Dr. Smith\") rather than using a generic salutation like \"Dear Editor.\" 2. **Be Concise**: Keep the letter to one page (around 300-400 words). Editors are busy, and they will appreciate brevity. 3. **Follow the Journal's Guidelines**: Check the journal's website for any specific instructions regarding cover letter submissions. Some journals may have a preferred structure or additional information they want you to include. 4. **Polished Language**: Ensure that your cover letter is clear, polite, and professional. Avoid excessive jargon and keep the tone formal. 5. **Be Honest**: Make sure that all statements in your cover letter are truthful, particularly regarding the originality of the manuscript and any ethical issues. **Continue the manuscript preparation....** ### **9. Revisions and Resubmission** - After submission, you may receive feedback from reviewers or editors. Address the reviewers\' comments carefully and revise your manuscript accordingly. - If necessary, explain the changes made in response to reviewers' comments and resubmit the manuscript. By following these steps, researchers can effectively prepare their manuscripts for submission to academic journals and improve the chances of successful publication. **What about impact factors of the journal?** Impact Factors are important for the Journal, Editors, reviewers, and the authors. The impact factor is calculated as the number of citations in the present year to papers from the previous 2 years divided by the number of publications in the previous 2 years. The higher the Impact Factor, the better the reviewers perform and the higher the quality of the papers that are submitted to the journal. The most commonly cited papers are guidelines and reviews and for all other papers, it is difficult to predict the number of citations. In general, these papers are highly cited when the topic is interesting and innovative and the paper is written by a leading group that will lead to many self-citations. Also, when the paper describes a new and important approach or method, it is used by key papers and it will be highly cited. From enunciating research in the manuscript to [selecting the right journal](https://www.enago.com/publication-support-services/journal-selection), researchers come a long way to get their work published. However, choosing the right journal to publish plays a pivotal role in shaping the trajectory of one's scholarly impact. Submitting research to high impact factor journals carries significant weight in the academic landscape.  You can find a journal\'s IF in the Journal Citation Reports (JCR) CiteScore. In general, an impact factor of 10 or higher is considered remarkable, while 3 is good, and the average score is less than 1. When your work is published in a renowned publication, it not only reaches a wider audience but also establishes your expertise in the field. Here are some advantages of publishing in high impact factor journals: You can only compare the impact factor of a journal with other journals in the same category. 1\. Good Impact Factor: A good impact factor can vary by field, but in many scientific disciplines, an IF above 5 or 10 is often considered high. 2\. Average Impact Factor: In many fields, a journal with an impact factor between 1 and 5 might be considered average. 3\. Low or Bad Impact Factor: A journal with an impact factor between 0 and 1 might be considered low impact factor journals in several domains. However, the above values do not strictly determine the "bad", "good", and "average" for academic journals, as different fields may have different norms and citation practices, which influence these numbers. **Source- Nair A., High Impact Journals 2024 --- Key to deciding the right journal​, https://www.enago.com/academy/top-high-impact-factor-journals/\#:\~:text=The%20perception%20of%20an%20impact,influence%20these%20numbers%20and%20rankings.** **What is DOI?** A **Digital Object Identifier (DOI)** is a unique alphanumeric string that is used to identify and provide a persistent link to digital objects, such as research articles, datasets, and other types of scholarly content. It also has tracking and reporting capabilities, which provide **valuable information about the reach and impact of scholarly content.** This helps researchers, publishers and institutions to understand the impact of their work and make informed decisions about future research and publishing efforts. DOI is important as it ensures that digital objects can be accessed even if the original URL is no longer available. This is important because it ensures that scholarly content remains accessible over time. It also makes it easy to locate and access research articles, datasets and other types of **scholarly content**, which is important for the ongoing advancement of knowledge in a particular field. DOIs are required or strongly encouraged in certain citation style guidelines, such as APA, MLA, and Chicago. You can include the DOI at the end of the citation for an online scholarly journal article. To receive a DOI, the publisher with whom you publish must be a member of a DOI organization.  while it is not strictly required to have a DOI assigned to a research paper in order to publish it, it is highly recommended for several reasons such as making it **easy to locate and access your paper, tracking and reporting of the usage statistics of your paper**, and being an important aspect of academic integrity and scholarly publishing. **Importance of DOI in Research Paper** Here is a Sanskrit Subhashita (proverb) that touches on the value of being recognized, accountable, and making one\'s work accessible, which aligns with the idea of having a DOI (Digital Object Identifier) for research papers: **सर्वे भवन्तु सुखिनः सर्वे सन्तु निरामयाः।\ सर्वे भद्राणि पश्यन्तु मा कश्चिद्दुःखभाग्भवेत्॥** \"May all be happy, may all be free from illness.\ May all see what is auspicious, may no one suffer in any way.\" This Subhashita reflects the idea of making knowledge accessible and beneficial to everyone, which mirrors the role of a DOI in the context of scholarly publishing. Just as the Subhashita expresses a wish for universal well-being and accessibility to positive things, a DOI helps ensure that academic papers are easily accessible, traceable, and free from barriers to knowledge. The DOI also ensures the integrity and accountability of the scholarly work, much like the ethical aspirations of this Subhashita. **Importance of DOI** 1. It provides **a permanent link** 2. **Facilitate citation tracking** 3. **Increase data sharing and reuse** 4. **Promote research work** 5. **Assign copyright holders** 6. **Make it easier to cite** When presenting a research paper for publication in the humanities, several common mistakes can hinder its acceptance or the clarity of the argument. Below are some of the most frequent errors made by authors: ### 1. **Unclear Research Question** - **Mistake**: Not clearly defining the research question or thesis from the outset. - **Fix**: The central argument or research question should be explicit and unambiguous. Readers should know what the paper is trying to prove or explore within the first few paragraphs. ### 2. **Lack of a Strong Argument or Contribution** - **Mistake**: Failing to make an original contribution to the field, or presenting a paper that merely summarizes existing literature. - **Fix**: A research paper should offer a new perspective, analysis, or interpretation. Clearly articulate how the research adds value to existing scholarly conversations. ### 3. **Weak Literature Review** - **Mistake**: Insufficient engagement with relevant and current literature or failing to acknowledge key scholars in the field. - **Fix**: Ensure that the literature review is thorough, critically evaluates existing scholarship, and demonstrates an understanding of the broader academic conversation. ### 4. **Overly Complex or Unclear Language** - **Mistake**: Using jargon, overly complex language, or convoluted sentence structures that make the paper hard to understand. - **Fix**: Strive for clarity and precision. Academic writing should be accessible and coherent, especially in the humanities and social science where concepts can often be abstract. ### 5. **Poor Structure and Organization** - **Mistake**: A lack of logical flow between sections, or not properly organizing the paper with clear sections such as introduction, objectives, methodology, literature review, argument, and conclusion/ recommnedation. - **Fix**: Organize the paper with clear subsections and maintain a logical progression. Each paragraph should have a clear purpose and contribute to the overall argument. ### 6. **Inadequate or Inconsistent Citations** - **Mistake**: Inaccurate or incomplete citations, or inconsistent formatting of references. - **Fix**: Follow the citation style required by the journal or publisher (e.g., MLA, Chicago, APA). Ensure that all sources are properly cited both in the text and in the bibliography. ### 7. **Failure to Adhere to Submission Guidelines** - **Mistake**: Not following the journal's specific formatting, length, or other submission guidelines. - **Fix**: Carefully read and adhere to all submission guidelines. This includes font size, margins, citation style, and any particular structural requirements. ### 8. **Inadequate Methodological Explanation (for Research Papers)** - **Mistake**: If the paper involves a specific method (e.g., qualitative or quantitative research), failing to adequately describe or justify the methodology. - **Fix**: Make sure the methodology section (if applicable) is detailed and clear, outlining the research process and explaining why the chosen method is suitable for the study. ### 9. **Overloading the Paper with Unnecessary Details** - **Mistake**: Including excessive background information or tangential details that don't directly support the argument. - **Fix**: Focus on the main argument, and only include background or secondary information that directly contributes to the research question or thesis. ### 10. **Ignoring the Journal's Audience** - **Mistake**: Not considering the interests and background of the journal\'s audience, resulting in a paper that may not be relevant or engaging for them. - **Fix**: Tailor the content and tone of the paper to match the journal's readership, whether it's scholarly or more general. ### 11. **Inadequate Conclusion** - **Mistake**: Ending the paper abruptly without summarizing the main findings or their broader implications. - **Fix**: A good conclusion should restate the main argument, summarize key points, and suggest potential avenues for further research. ### 12. **Ignoring Peer Review Feedback** - **Mistake**: Not taking feedback from peer reviewers seriously or failing to revise the manuscript based on their suggestions. - **Fix**: Address peer review comments thoughtfully, and revise the paper accordingly to improve its quality. ### 13. **Lack of Visual or Supporting Materials (if applicable)** - **Mistake**: For research that involves analysis of texts, images, or historical documents, not providing adequate visual materials or supplementary data. - **Fix**: If applicable, include relevant images, tables, or other visuals that enhance the argument and provide clear context for your research. ### 14. **Plagiarism or Insufficient Paraphrasing** - **Mistake**: Copying or closely paraphrasing from sources without proper attribution. - **Fix**: Always ensure that quotes and paraphrases are properly cited. Use plagiarism-checking tools to avoid unintentional errors. ### 15. **Lack of Engagement with Counterarguments** - **Mistake**: Not considering or addressing counterarguments to the thesis. - **Fix**: Acknowledge and engage with opposing viewpoints, demonstrating a nuanced understanding of the issue. This will strengthen the credibility and depth of the paper. By avoiding these common mistakes and ensuring clarity, originality, and rigor in the paper, authors can improve their chances of successful publication in the humanities. - To ensure output traceability consistently use the same version of your name, including the same abbreviations, throughout your academic career; - Use a standardized institutional affiliation and address; - Measure your current status of research visibility and impact on: 1\) SCOPUS 2\) Web of Science 3\) Other websites (such as Google Scholar and etc.) **Research Impact Matrics** - Web Presence - Online Profile - Web of Science Usage Count - Citations - H-Index - Citation per Document - Research Interest Score **Maximizing Your Research Visibility and Impact** ================================================== **Why Need a Researcher\'s Profile Database?** - Few authors have unique names Researchers may publish under some variations of their name Co-authors may misspell or misrepresent the author\'s names on a paper on submission Institutional affiliations can change over the course of a career **Information to Include on Your Academic Website** Your academic webpage/website can include a wide range of information about your academic work and role, including: Your name, Title, Affiliated research institution, Bio, Professional photo, Research interests, List of current or selected publications, and Link to your ORCID and other websites. ### **Overcoming Challenges in Publication** - **Common Rejections**: - Addressing common reasons for rejection: insufficient originality, lack of significance, poor writing - How to revise and resubmit - **Staying Motivated**: - Keep improving your research paper - Seek advice from mentors and peers ### [ ] ### ### ### ### ### ### ### ### ### ### ### ### #### **Research Publication and Indexing Fraud** #### #### A. Fake or Predatory Journals Predatory journals are those that exploit researchers, especially early-career scholars, by charging publication fees without providing legitimate editorial and peer review services. They often: - **Accept low-quality or plagiarized research** for publication without proper review. - **Promise high-impact or rapid publication** without adequate quality control. - **Charge authors high publication fees** (often hidden or unclear). Some of the signs of predatory journals include: - Unprofessional website design and formatting. - Promises of rapid publication or \"guaranteed acceptance.\" - Lack of a clear peer-review process. - No information on editorial board members or affiliations. These journals often do not have proper editorial oversight and are not indexed in reputable databases like Scopus, or Web of Science. #### B. Fake Indexing Some journals falsely claim to be indexed in reputed databases (like Scopus, or Web of Science) to appear more credible and attract researchers. These journals may: - **Misrepresent their inclusion in reputable databases**. - Claim to be **indexed in non-existent or obscure databases**. - **Publish papers without any real indexing**, hoping to make the journal appear more reputable than it really is. Some journals may be indexed in fake or low-quality databases (called \"pseudo-indexing\") to attract authors but do not offer the credibility or reach of genuine indexing platforms. #### C. Article Spinning and Ghostwriting - **Article Spinning** refers to the practice of rephrasing or slightly altering existing articles to create \"new\" versions, which are then published in multiple journals to inflate an academic's publication record. - **Ghostwriting** involves having a professional writer create an article, which is then published under a researcher's name, sometimes without the researcher's full involvement in the writing process. #### D. Duplicate Publication This involves submitting the same research to multiple journals or publishing the same data or findings more than once, sometimes without disclosure. This practice can: - Inflate an academic's publication count. - Mislead other researchers into thinking the findings are novel. - Waste journal resources and confuse the scientific record. #### E. Fake Peer Review Some researchers or journals manipulate the peer review process to get papers published: - **Fake peer reviewers** may be used to create an illusion of a legitimate review process. These reviewers could be colleagues or accomplices of the authors. - Journals might accept papers based on **biased or fraudulent reviews**, which leads to the publication of low-quality or inaccurate research. #### F. Inflated Impact Factor or Citation Manipulation Researchers or journals might use unethical practices to manipulate the perceived impact of their publications: - **Citation Rings**: Researchers or journals may engage in \"citation rings,\" where they cite each other's work in a coordinated effort to boost citation counts and impact factors. - **Self-citation Abuse**: Authors may excessively cite their own work in multiple publications to artificially inflate their citation count and academic reputation. ### **2. Consequences of Research Publication and Indexing Fraud** #### A. Damage to Scientific Integrity Fraudulent publications can harm the quality and reliability of scientific literature, leading to: - The **dissemination of false or unreliable findings**. - Misleading research communities and policymakers. - Wasted resources and efforts on non-credible research. #### B. Erosion of Academic Reputation Researchers found to engage in fraudulent publication practices risk: - **Loss of academic credibility** and trust in the research community. - **Career setbacks** due to retraction of papers, suspension, or even being blacklisted by academic institutions. #### C. Wasted Financial Resources Research funders and institutions may waste resources on fraudulent publications that: - Don't contribute meaningful scientific advancements. - Lead to the funding of projects with poor or non-reproducible results. #### D. Impact on Students and Early Career Researchers Students and junior researchers might fall prey to predatory journals, harming their academic and professional development. This could: - Lead to **misrepresentation of credentials** in the academic community. - Cause **wasted time** and **financial loss** due to excessive publication fees. ### [ **Preparing for Presentation in the conference** ] - **Understanding Your Audience**: - Tailoring the content for academic, professional, or general audiences - Understanding the level of knowledge and expectations of your audience - **Key Elements of a Good Presentation**: - Clear objective - Logical flow (Introduction → Methods → Results → Discussion) - Visual aids (graphs, tables, diagrams) - **Practice**: - Rehearse your presentation to improve clarity and confidence - Time management: Keeping within the allotted time ### **[Crafting Your Presentation Slide Deck]** - **Best Practices**: - Use minimal text (aim for key points, not paragraphs) - Use visuals to simplify complex information (charts, graphs, images) - Make the design clean and professional (consistent fonts, clear color scheme) - **Avoid Common Pitfalls**: - Too much information on a single slide - Overcomplicated graphs or unclear visuals - Small fonts that are hard to read ### **[Presenting Effectively]** - **Engaging Your Audience**: - Speak clearly and at a moderate pace - Use eye contact to maintain connection - Ask questions or include interactive elements to engage the audience - **Handling Questions**: - Anticipate possible questions - Be prepared to clarify or defend your methodology, findings, or conclusions - Stay calm and professional during Q&A sessions **Books**: - Day, R. A., & Gastel, B. (2021). *How to Write and Publish a Scientific Paper* (8th ed.). Cambridge University Press. - Sword, H. (2012). *Stylish Academic Writing*. Harvard University Press. - Hartley, J. (2008). *Academic Writing and Publishing: A Practical Handbook*. Routledge. - Booth, W. C., Colomb, G. G., & Williams, J. M. (2008). *The Craft of Research*. University of Chicago Press. **Websites**: - Elsevier's Guide to Publishing Research: https://www.elsevier.com/en-xm/solutions/author-services - Springer's Author Academy: **Building a Comprehensive Researcher Profile Database** [**https://orcid.org/**](https://orcid.org/)