How to write a paper for publication

Engaging in the scientific publication process can be for both altruistic and egotistical reasons; publication advances the state of scientific knowledge while advancing your institution and your career. Writing for publication means setting aside a location and time dedicated entirely to the process of planning and writing. It is easiest to begin with the Methods section, then the Results, followed by the Discussion, which is the most challenging part of a paper. A realistic assessment of the value of the article will determine the level of journal into which it is likely to gain acceptance. If your article is rejected by a journal, be consoled by the fact that 50% of articles that are initially rejected are eventually published. Following the steps outlined here can reduce the daunting task of writing to one of manageable proportions and can help overcome the mental block and procrastination that all of us have experienced when we set out to write a scientific paper.