Publishing in professional journals, part II: writing the manuscript

A great deal of work goes into the planning phase of a manuscript. These important planning steps are necessary to complete before you start the writing process. Often, inexperienced writers do not spend enough time on these vital planning steps, and that oversight can be a major factor in having a manuscript rejected for publication. The purpose of this article is to guide you in the process of writing your manuscript on the basis of your well-designed plan. Topics that are covered include avoiding writer's block, making time to write, developing the first draft using appropriate writing style, creating and submitting the final draft, and receiving feedback from the editor.