1. How to publish your work in academic journals
Workshop, Kerman, Iran
Professor Stefan Grab
University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa

2. Select a project that is publishable
Something never investigated before in Iran
-always requires a thorough literature search
Investigating a problem that requires a practical solution and has applied value to a place or region
Testing a new scientific theory
Proving another study incorrect with the aid of better evidence
Something that is beneficial to people, nature/environment, agriculture, industry, tourism, economy, settlement
A study that raises national or international interest

3. Use good quality graphics
Select a methodology that is nationally and/or internationally recognized
Sufficient sample size
Methods must be accurate
Use latest recognized software, statistical or laboratory techniques
Use good quality graphics
Maps
Graphs and tables, diagrams

4. Build a clear and well organized paper
Some basic principles looked for:
Title: informative, creative, interest the reader
Abstract: should never be too long (aim for 300 words)
WHAT the paper aims to do/achieve
HOW the work was done (key methods)
WHAT the main finding or conclusion is
Introduction:
-Set the context of the work
-Briefly review important literature
-provide a purpose for your study – why is it important?
-what is the AIM of the project

5. Build a clear and well organized paper
Some basic principles looked for:
Study area:
-Important background information that is relevant to your study
-Maybe provide a map
Methodology:
-Do not state the obvious – what most would be expected to know
-explain methods clearly and scientifically
-show that you are aware of potential limitations and how you have dealt with them
-ethics and ethics clearance

6. Build a clear and well organized paper
Some basic principles looked for:
Results:
-Include tables and graphs and outline main findings
-quantify findings where possible
-compare
Discussion
-discuss mainly your own findings – not those of others
-what is the value of your findings?
-local, regional, national or international significance?
-what is new that you present?
-what do your findings add that may benefit the future?

7. Build a clear and well organized paper
Some basic principles looked for:
Discussion
-Focus on a story that flows logically
-avoid complicating things and making things too complex
-get to the point quickly and do not elaborate too much
Conclusion:
-Try not to repeat what you have already said
-What is the most interesting finding(s) and what is the value?

8. Getting started Overcoming writers block (procrastination)
Set realistic goals and monitor achievement
Create dedicated writing time when writing is all that you do
Do social writing – write with others - accountability

9. Put the paper aside and take a time of rest or relaxation
Put the paper aside and take a time of rest or relaxation. Then go back and proof read and check
Get someone to proof read your paper
Avoid trying to put all the information of a Masters or PhD project into a paper
VERY IMPORTANT: Select the appropriate journal
impact factor and journal standing
local vs international
journal theme: read the journal’s aims and scope on the journal homepage
open access
turn-around time
who do you want to read your work? Consider audience
5. Always follow the correct submission procedures

12. Types of research articles:
Letters and rapid or short communications are intended for the quick and early communication of significant or original advances, without including too much data
2. Review papers summarize recent developments on a specific topic, without introducing new data.
3. Full articles contain significant data, detail, developments and outcomes.
Submit your paper to ONLY ONE journal at a time
Responding to reviewer feedback
Accept without revision
Accept with major or minor revision– don’t give up!
Reject – improve paper and try with another journal

17. Thank you for the invite