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revising a manuscript, as well as use of good English language grammar and effective writing strategies. Finally, and importantly, the topic of how to respond to reviewer comments and revise a manuscript according to these comments will be discussed. It is often this last step that will dictate if a manuscript is accepted or rejected for publication. Authors all too frequently overlook, gloss over, or rush through this aspect of paper writing, to their detriment. In summary, this chapter is designed to provide a framework for authors to write, submit, and revise a manuscript for peer-review publication while at the same time deconstructing manuscript writing so that it can be an enjoyable, nondaunting task.

Why Write

There are many reasons why it is important to write and write well in academic medicine. First, publication deficiency is the single greatest barrier to promotion and tenure. Publication of research, whether it is basic science/translational research, clinical outcomes/health services research, or education research, is the primary measure of academic productivity. Second, writing is a way to convey novel concepts and ideas to the academic community at large and contribute to the collective knowledge. Third, publication provides both personal and institutional recognition. Fourth, failure to publish results in many faculty members leaving academia. Thus, if you are interested in achieving and maintaining an academic position, and/or interested in conveying novel concepts and ideas to a larger audience, you must become proficient at writing.

Getting Started

Where and When to Write

For most individuals, finding time to write is difficult in today’s busy electronic age with increasing pressures for clinical productivity. However, to be successful, you must make

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writing a priority. While some believe that the first three rules of academic writing are (1) just do it, (2) just do it, and (3) just do it, this is more easily said than done. It is important to recognize your writing style. Some prefer to write in long, quiet blocks of time. Others prefer short, repeated sessions. After recognizing your writing style, it is important to block out the necessary time on your calendar to write. For productive writing time, it is recommended to have an environment free from distractions such as emails and phone calls. If you are one of those individuals who needs constant email contact to feel in touch, then try at least muting the volume on your computer so you are not disturbed every time you receive an email. But best practice would be to close the email application all together. Last, setting writing deadlines and adhering to them is important for maintaining consistent productivity. Cheating on your self-imposed deadlines only hurts you and your academic prowess, as it often leads to rushing, cutting of corners, and potentially sloppy work.

The place you write is equally important. If you have a busy personal life or have children, writing at home can be very difficult. However, if you have an open door policy at work, writing in your office can also be difficult as you may encounter many interruptions from people stopping by to ask questions and chat. Depending on your circumstances, you should decide where the best place is for you to write. Some may prefer finding a quiet hidden spot in the library with their laptop, while others may decide that a corner booth in a coffee shop is ideal. Merely closing your office door may be a sufficient signal to others that private time is needed and that you should not be disturbed. Regardless, find what works best for you and adhere to it. Having discipline is half the battle.

Choosing the Journal

Before you begin to write, it is critical to determine who your audience is so that an appropriate journal can be chosen.

First, decide if your topic is of general interest or for a specific