A. A. Shokeir

بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم

”الذي علم بالقلم ، علم االنسان ما لم يعلم“

صدق الله العظيم

A. A. Shokeir

HOW TO WRITE A SCIENTIFIC

ORIGINAL ARTICLE

BY

Ahmed Shokeir, MD, PhD, FEBU

Professor of Urology,

Mansoura Urology & Nephrology

Center, Mansoura, Egypt.

A. A. Shokeir

The Problem“I have collected a

mass of facts, ideas,

experience, but I

cannot arrange them

into any system or

order them into a

definite pattern”.

A. A. Shokeir

The Problem

“I have spent a lot of

time and a lot of

effort in writing

papers, but once

submitted always

rejected”.

A. A. Shokeir

The Problem

Doctors spend a deal

of time with pen in

hand. What they need,

however, is someone

to help them express

themselves clearly.

A. A. Shokeir

The Problem

A person who is

intelligent enough to be a

doctor is also intelligent

enough to learn how to

write down what he

wants to say in simple

accurate terms.

A. A. Shokeir

Wrong Belief

“Big international journals

do not accept papers from

Arab countries and

developing countries !!!”

A. A. Shokeir

Types of Articles

Original article.

Review article.

Case report.

Letter to the editor.

Point of technique.

Editorial Comment.

Etc….

A. A. Shokeir

Original Article

A. A. Shokeir

Original ArticleThree Essential Requirements

“ Basic Triad “

Stru

ctur

e M. W

riting

Subject

A. A. Shokeir

I- Subject worthwhile to report.

Subject

Original ArticleThree Essential Requirements

“ Basic Triad “

A. A. Shokeir

• Read the relevant literature carefully.

• Make sure that you are not repeating what had

been done successfully before.

Original ArticleThree Essential Requirements

I- Subject

• There should be an addition to the already

existing literature.

A. A. Shokeir

It is better to spend 2 weeks reading in the

library than 2 years working in the lab.

Do not waste your time in writing a paper

which will never see day-light.

Original ArticleThree Essential Requirements

I- Subject

A. A. Shokeir

II- Basic structure of manuscript.

Original Article

Three Essential Requirements

“ Basic Triad “

Subject

Stru

ctur

e

A. A. Shokeir

Title page.Abstract.Introduction.Patients & Methods.Results.Discussion.Summary.References.Tables.Legends to Figures.Figures.

Contents of The Original Article

A. A. Shokeir

Title Page

Title.

Authors.

Institutions.

Running title.

Key words.

Word count.

Corresponding author.

Second title page.

Title page

Abstract

Introduction

Materials & Method

Results

Discussion

Summary

References

Tables

Figures

Legends to Figures

A. A. Shokeir

Title PageThe Title

Informative, specific, comprehensive, and accurate stating exactly what you mean.

Convey the maximum information with the minimum of words.

Express (at least):

- The main issue of the study.

- The type of the study.

Title page

Abstract

Introduction

Materials & Method

Results

Discussion

Summary

References

Tables

Figures

Legends to Figures

A. A. Shokeir

State the subject, never the

conclusion.

Should be considered again, again

and again when the paper is finished.

The final title is the last sentence to

be written in the paper.

Title PageThe Title

Title page

Abstract

Introduction

Materials & Method

Results

Discussion

Summary

References

Tables

Figures

Legends to Figures

A. A. Shokeir

An author must have contributed something worthwhile:Creative thinking.Performing diagnostic or therapeutic

techniques very essential in the study.Collecting data.Writing.

Title PageThe Authors

Who should be an Author?

Title page

Abstract

Introduction

Materials & Method

Results

Discussion

Summary

References

Tables

Figures

Legends to Figures

A. A. Shokeir

For multiple authors with various contributions:• Who has done the most work.

Title PageThe Authors

Who should be the first Author?

Title page

Abstract

Introduction

Materials & Method

Results

Discussion

Summary

References

Tables

Figures

Legends to Figures

For multiple authors with equal contribution:• Give the advantage to the junior.• The junior the first, the senior the last.

For 2 authors:• First publication: give the advantage to the junior.

• Second publication: redress the balance.

A. A. Shokeir

Papers from Thesis

A thesis is essentially a personal project.

The name of the candidate should be the first.

The most senior person is the last.

Title PageThe Authors

Who should be the first Author?

Title page

Abstract

Introduction

Materials & Method

Results

Discussion

Summary

References

Tables

Figures

Legends to Figures

A. A. Shokeir

Be very careful to use only one name with

the same spelling and the same initials for

all your publications.

Example of different initials

Ghoneim MA

Ghoneim M

Title PageThe Authors

Title page

Abstract

Introduction

Materials & Method

Results

Discussion

Summary

References

Tables

Figures

Legends to Figures

A. A. Shokeir

Example of different spelling:

Shokeir

Shokier

Shokair

shokeer

Title PageThe Authors

Title page

Abstract

Introduction

Materials & Method

Results

Discussion

Summary

References

Tables

Figures

Legends to Figures

A. A. Shokeir

The compound names should be

written as one word

Abd El Rahman

Abdulrahman

Title PageThe Authors

Title page

Abstract

Introduction

Materials & Method

Results

Discussion

Summary

References

Tables

Figures

Legends to Figures

A. A. Shokeir

To be written in the title page only.

Do not write institutions inside the article.

Do not write information inside the article that can identify the names of the authors.

Title PageInstitutions

Title page

Abstract

Introduction

Materials & Method

Results

Discussion

Summary

References

Tables

Figures

Legends to Figures

A. A. Shokeir

Short running title.

Key words : Medline search.

Word count : 2000-3000 words.

Corresponding author: Full address.

Title PageTitle page

Abstract

Introduction

Materials & Method

Results

Discussion

Summary

References

Tables

Figures

Legends to Figures

A. A. Shokeir

Title PageSecond title page

Should include only the title.

No authors names, no institutions.

This page will be used in the review

process.

Title page

Abstract

Introduction

Materials & Method

Results

Discussion

Summary

References

Tables

Figures

Legends to Figures

A. A. Shokeir

ABSTRACT

The first part that appears.

The last part to be written.

Will be discussed at the end.

Title page

Abstract

Introduction

Materials & Method

Results

Discussion

Summary

References

Tables

Figures

Legends to Figures

A. A. Shokeir

Introduction

Definition:

It introduces the subject but does not develop it.

Objectives:

1- To hold the reader’s attention.

2- To give sufficient information to whet the appetite.

Title page

Abstract

Introduction

Materials & Method

Results

Discussion

Summary

References

Tables

Figures

Legends to Figures

A. A. Shokeir

It sets the tone and quality of the entire

paper.

How a writer begins will determine

whether his reader bothers to go on and

how he ends will determine whether the

reader is satisfied or unconvinced.

Title page

Abstract

Introduction

Materials & Method

Results

Discussion

Summary

References

Tables

Figures Legends to

Figures

IntroductionImportance

A. A. Shokeir

INTRODUCTION Fundamental Parts

SHORT REVIEW

PROBLEMS &

LIMITATIONS

AIM OF THE STUDY

SCOPE OF THE STUDY

Title page

Abstract

Introduction

Materials & Method

Results

Discussion

Summary

References

Tables

Figures Legends to

Figures

A. A. Shokeir

Should touch the core of the subject.Should be concise and interesting, not boring.Long historical reviews are dull.Should be provided by some updated references.

It varies in length from one sentence to several paragraphs.

Title page

Abstract

Introduction

Materials & Method

Results

Discussion

Summary

References

Tables

Figures Legends to

Figures

IntroductionFundamental Parts

1- Short Review

A. A. Shokeir

Convince the reader of the

importance of your study.

Give reasons for investigating this

particular subject.

Title page

Abstract

Introduction

Materials & Method

Results

Discussion

Summary

References

Tables

Figures

Legends to Figures

IntroductionFundamental Parts

2- Limitations of existing literature

A. A. Shokeir

The study should answer a timely and

important question.

The rationale of the study must be

strong and very clear.

There should be an addition to the

existing literature.

Title page

Abstract

Introduction

Materials & Method

Results

Discussion

Summary

References

Tables

Figures Legends to

Figures

IntroductionFundamental Parts3- Aim of the study

A. A. Shokeir

Set out the scope of the study.

Provide a quick overview of the

organization which follows.

Title page

Abstract

Introduction

Materials & Method

Results

Discussion

Summary

References

Tables

Figures

Legends to Figures

IntroductionFundamental Parts

4- Scope of the Study

A. A. Shokeir

Introduction must be short and to the point.

“ The reader can gain the main body of the paper”.

It should be easy to read.

Do not use too many references (more suitable for discussion).

Title page

Abstract

Introduction

Materials & Method

Results

Discussion

Summary

References

Tables

Figures

Legends to Figures

Introduction

General Advice

A. A. Shokeir

Evaluation of the

IntroductionThe reviewer asks the following questions :Title page

Abstract

Introduction

Materials & Method

Results

Discussion

Summary

References

Tables

Figures

Legends to Figures

1- Are the objectives clear ?2- Is the importance of the study adequately emphasized ?3- Is the subject matter of the study new ?4-Is previous work on the subject adequately cited ?

A. A. Shokeir

MATERIAL & METHODS

MATERIALS

METHODS DESIGN

STATISTICS

0

Title page

Abstract

Introduction

Materials & Method

Results

Discussion

Summary

References

Tables

Figures Legends to

Figures

Fundamental Parts

ETHICAL CONSIDERATIONS

A. A. Shokeir

1- Full description of the materials.Example: If patients:

- Demographic characteristics. - All relevant information.

Materials And Methods

Fundamental Parts

Title page

Abstract

Introduction

Materials & Method

Results

Discussion

Summary

References

Tables

Figures

Legends to Figures

2- Full description of the methods.Example: - Surgical technique.

- Radiological technique. - If drug (preparation, dose,

timing…etc).

A. A. Shokeir

3- Full description of the type of the study:

- If controlled: Type of the control.

- If randomized: Method of randomization.

Title page

Abstract

Introduction

Materials & Method

Results

Discussion

Summary

References

Tables

Figures

Legends to Figures

Materials And Methods

Fundamental Parts

4- Statistical methods:

- Common: Enumeration.

- Uncommon: Simple idea + reference.

A. A. Shokeir

•Fully Informed consent

•Permission of ethical committee

•Conflict of interest

•Funding

•Declaration of Helsinki

Title page

Abstract

Introduction

Materials & Method

Results

Discussion

Summary

References

Tables

Figures

Legends to Figures

Materials And Methods

Fundamental Parts

5- Ethical Considerations

A. A. Shokeir

Only new methods are described in details.

Previously published methods:

- Common: Enumeration + reference.

- Uncommon: Short summary + reference.

Do not lose your objective. All methods used

should be devoted to satisfying the objectives.

Title page

Abstract

Introduction

Materials & Method

Results

Discussion

Summary

References

Tables

Figures

Legends to Figures

Materials And Methods

General Advice

A. A. Shokeir

Evaluation of the Materials

and MethodsThe reviewer asks the following questions :

Title page

Abstract

Introduction

Materials & Method

Results

Discussion

Summary

References

Tables

Figures

Legends to Figures

1- Is the study population detailed adequately ?2- Are the methods described well enough to reproduce the experiment?3- Is the study design clear ?4- Are statistical methods included ?

A. A. Shokeir

Presentation of the results.Title page

Abstract

Introduction

Materials & Method

Results

Discussion

Summary

References

Tables

Figures Legends to

Figures

Results

Correlation of the data.

Fundamental Parts

A. A. Shokeir

Results of all methods used must

be provided in a respective

systematic manner.

Present the results as text, tables or

graphs, but do not repeat the same

data in more than one.

Title page

Abstract

Introduction

Materials & Method

Results

Discussion

Summary

References

Tables

Figures

Legends to Figures

Results

Fundamental Parts1- Presentation of the results

A. A. Shokeir

The reader is entitled to have the data

presented in a logical order, which may

not have been the order in which the

work was done.

Title page

Abstract

Introduction

Materials & Method

Results

Discussion

Summary

References

Tables

Figures

Legends to Figures

Results

Fundamental Parts

1- Presentation of the results

A. A. Shokeir

Correlate your data with each others to obtain an objective proof of your hypothesis.

In science the object is a precise measurement “Measure what is measurable and make measurable what is not” [Galileo].

Title page

Abstract

Introduction

Materials & Method

Results

Discussion

Summary

References

Tables

Figures

Legends to Figures

Results

Fundamental Parts

2- Correlation of data

A. A. Shokeir

In biological sciences, all

measurements are inexact. The only

way to describe this variability is to

use statistics intelligently.

Title page

Abstract

Introduction

Materials & Method

Results

Discussion

Summary

References

Tables

Figures

Legends to Figures

Results

Fundamental Parts

2- Correlation of data

A. A. Shokeir

Statistical significance is different from clinical importance.

Small differences between large groups can be statistically significant but clinically not important.

Large differences between small groups can be clinically important but not statistically significant.

Title page

Abstract

Introduction

Materials & Method

Results

Discussion

Summary

References

Tables

Figures

Legends to Figures

ResultsFundamental Parts

2- Correlation of data

A. A. Shokeir

Do not write any result for a method not

mentioned in the section of materials and

methods.

Results must be written in a very clear

non- equivocal non-confusing manner.

Avoid redundancy (each information must

be mentioned only once).

Title page

Abstract

Introduction

Materials & Method

Results

Discussion

Summary

References

Tables

Figures

Legends to Figures

Results

General Advice

A. A. Shokeir

Only relevant results (related to the

aim of the study) should be

mentioned.

Do not distract the attention of the

reader by irrelevant results.

Title page

Abstract

Introduction

Materials & Method

Results

Discussion

Summary

References

Tables

Figures

Legends to Figures

Results

General Advice

A. A. Shokeir

In comparative studies, each comparison should be provided by its own statistical evaluation.

Title page

Abstract

Introduction

Materials & Method

Results

Discussion

Summary

References

Tables

Figures

Legends to Figures

Results

General Advice

Each information must be objective. Avoid using bizarre words e.g., most, some, probably…..etc.

Do not lose your objective. Each result should be useful to support the aim of the study.

A. A. Shokeir

Evaluation of the ResultsThe reviewer asks the following questions :

Title page

Abstract

Introduction

Materials & Method

Results

Discussion

Summary

References

Tables

Figures

Legends to Figures

1- Can the reader assess the results based on the data provided ?2- Is the information straight-forward and not confusing ?3- Are there adequate controls ?4- Are statistical methods appropriate ?

A. A. Shokeir

DISCUSSION

INTRODUCTION

DISCUSSION OF THE

RESULTS

NEW ADDITIONS IN YOUR STUDY

Limitations of your study

Title page

Abstract

Introduction

Materials & Method

Results

Discussion

Summary

References

Tables

Figures

Legends to Figures

Fundamental Parts

A. A. Shokeir

It is preferable to start discussion by

a small paragraph emphasizing the

importance of the subject of the

study.

Title page

Abstract

Introduction

Materials & Method

Results

Discussion

Summary

References

Tables

Figures

Legends to Figures

DISCUSSIONFundamental Parts

1- Introduction to the discussion

A. A. Shokeir

Each result obtained must be adequately discussed in comparison with similar previous studies.

If results of your study is different from previous ones, an explanation must be given.

Title page

Abstract

Introduction

Materials & Method

Results

Discussion

Summary

References

Tables

Figures

Legends to Figures

DISCUSSIONFundamental Parts

2- Discussion of the results

A. A. Shokeir

A separate paragraph must be

written describing the advantages

and the new additions provided by

your study.

Title page

Abstract

Introduction

Materials & Method

Results

Discussion

Summary

References

Tables

Figures

Legends to Figures

DISCUSSIONFundamental Parts

3- New additions

A. A. Shokeir

Another paragraph must contain the

disadvantages, limitations and

short-comings of your study and

how these could be avoided in

future studies.

Title page

Abstract

Introduction

Materials & Method

Results

Discussion

Summary

References

Tables

Figures

Legends to Figures

DISCUSSIONFundamental Parts

4- Limitations

A. A. Shokeir

Results must be discussed in a

respective, logical clear manner.

Each issue must be discussed in

only one place, avoid repetition of

ideas.

Title page

Abstract

Introduction

Materials & Method

Results

Discussion

Summary

References

Tables

Figures

Legends to Figures

DISCUSSIONGeneral Advice

A. A. Shokeir

Do not return to discuss a previously

discussed issue.

Avoid opinion bias. All important

previous studies must be highlighted

regardless their results (whether with or

against your results).

Title page

Abstract

Introduction

Materials & Method

Results

Discussion

Summary

References

Tables

Figures

Legends to Figures

DISCUSSIONGeneral Advice

A. A. Shokeir

Evaluation of the Discussion

The reviewer asks the following questions :Title page

Abstract

Introduction

Materials & Method

Results

Discussion

Summary

References

Tables

Figures

Legends to Figures

1- Do the authors comment adequately on all their results ?2- Have the authors explained why and how their study differs from others already published ?3- Do the authors discuss the potential problems and limitations with their study ?4- Are the authors conclusions supported by the results ?

A. A. Shokeir

SUMMARY

Could be written as a separate

section or as the last paragraph of

the discussion.

It should stress on the most

relevant findings of the study.

Title page

Abstract

Introduction

Materials & Method

Results

Discussion

Summary

References

Tables

Figures

Legends to Figures

A. A. Shokeir

It is the take-home message of the

study.

It is a digest of the whole study.

It is not a repetition of the abstract.

It justifies and explains the

conclusion of the study.

SUMMARYTitle page

Abstract

Introduction

Materials & Method

Results

Discussion

Summary

References

Tables

Figures

Legends to Figures

A. A. Shokeir

REFERENCES

1- Alphabetical: For thesis.

2- Vancouver: For Journals.

Title page

Abstract

Introduction

Materials & Method

Results

Discussion

Summary

References

Tables

Figures

Legends to Figures

Styles

A. A. Shokeir

In the text:In the text:

-- Author Author’’s name, year (Ghoneim, 2000).s name, year (Ghoneim, 2000).

In the reference section:In the reference section:

-- Should be arranged alphabetically Should be arranged alphabetically

without numbers.without numbers.

REFERENCES1- Alphabetical Style

Title page

Abstract

Introduction

Materials & Method

Results

Discussion

Summary

References

Tables

Figures

Legends to Figures

A. A. Shokeir

References are arranged in the

reference section according to

their first appearance in the text

and expressed in the text as

numbers.

REFERENCES2- Vancouver Style

Title page

Abstract

Introduction

Materials & Method

Results

Discussion

Summary

References

Tables

Figures

Legends to Figures

A. A. Shokeir

Each journal has its own style of

references (house-style) explained in

“instructions to authors”. Read the

instructions AND examine a recent copy

of the Journal.

All references should be written in the

same style with the same arrangement.

REFERENCESTitle page

Abstract

Introduction

Materials & Method

Results

Discussion

Summary

References

Tables

Figures

Legends to Figures

General Advice

A. A. Shokeir

Recent references are better

than old ones.

A book reference is of the least

significance.

REFERENCESGeneral Advice

Title page

Abstract

Introduction

Materials & Method

Results

Discussion

Summary

References

Tables

Figures

Legends to Figures

A. A. Shokeir

The integrity of the references is the

responsibility of the authors only

(neither the referee nor the journal).

Some journals have a maximum

number of references that should not

be exceeded.

REFERENCESGeneral Advice

Title page

Abstract

Introduction

Materials & Method

Results

Discussion

Summary

References

Tables

Figures

Legends to Figures

A. A. Shokeir

REFERENCESEvaluation of References

Title page

Abstract

Introduction

Materials & Method

Results

Discussion

Summary

References

Tables

Figures

Legends to Figures

If you are lax with the references you may have been lax with the entire paper.

A. A. Shokeir

1- Pick-up the content without

reading the text.

2- Reveal the results at a glance.

TABLESTitle page

Abstract

Introduction

Materials & Method

Results

Discussion

Summary

References

Tables

Figures

Legends to Figures

Objectives

A. A. Shokeir

1- Completely intelligible to others.

2- Single unit of communication (completely informative).

3- Supply the maximum of information with the minimum of words.

TABLESCharacters of a good table

Title page

Abstract

Introduction

Materials & Method

Results

Discussion

Summary

References

Tables

Figures

Legends to Figures

A. A. Shokeir

1- Data should be arranged in the correct order.

2- Omit unimportant values.

3- Eliminate unnecessary words.

TABLESHow to achieve a good table?

Title page

Abstract

Introduction

Materials & Method

Results

Discussion

Summary

References

Tables

Figures

Legends to Figures

A. A. Shokeir

General trend Figure.

Exact values Table.

TABLESTable or figure?

Title page

Abstract

Introduction

Materials & Method

Results

Discussion

Summary

References

Tables

Figures

Legends to Figures

What is more important to the reader?

A. A. Shokeir

TABLESGeneral Advice

Title page

Abstract

Introduction

Materials & Method

Results

Discussion

Summary

References

Tables

Figures

Legends to Figures

Tables should provide additional

information not present in the text to avoid

redundancy.

Tables should be carefully designed to avoid

repetition of the headings and to be simple,

clear, not confusing and easy to follow.

A. A. Shokeir

Tables must be condensed, avoid splitting of data, all possible relevant information should be presented together in one table.

Tables comparing groups should contain their own statistical analysis.

TABLESGeneral Advice

Title page

Abstract

Introduction

Materials & Method

Results

Discussion

Summary

References

Tables

Figures

Legends to Figures

A. A. Shokeir

If abbreviations are used, they

should be explained at the

bottom of the table, even if they

were mentioned in the text.

Title page

Abstract

Introduction

Materials & Method

Results

Discussion

Summary

References

Tables

Figures

Legends to Figures

TABLESGeneral Advice

A. A. Shokeir

Tables are usually written after the references, each table in a separate page, having its own number and title.

Be sure that the correct number of the table appears in the correct place in the text.

TABLESGeneral Advice

Title page

Abstract

Introduction

Materials & Method

Results

Discussion

Summary

References

Tables

Figures

Legends to Figures

A. A. Shokeir

1- Not only to grasp the message

easily but also to hold it longer”.

“One picture is worth 1000 words”.

Illustrations And FiguresTitle page

Abstract

Introduction

Materials & Method

Results

Discussion

Summary

References

Tables

Figures Legends to

Figures

Objectives

A. A. Shokeir

2- Not to beautify the paper but to

convey information:

- introduce.

- explain.

- summarize.

Illustrations And FiguresObjectives

Title page

Abstract

Introduction

Materials & Method

Results

Discussion

Summary

References

Tables

Figures

Legends to Figures

A. A. Shokeir

1- Simplicity is the keynote of all arts.

2- Avoid sophistication and secondary details.

3- No repetition, no contradiction.

4- Consider good reproduction on photocopy.

Illustrations And FiguresHow to achieve a good illustration?

Title page

Abstract

Introduction

Materials & Method

Results

Discussion

Summary

References

Tables

Figures

Legends to Figures

A. A. Shokeir

• Each figure should be identified by:- Its number.

- Its top.

• Be sure that the correct number of the figure appears in the correct place in the text.

Illustrations And FiguresGeneral Advice

Title page

Abstract

Introduction

Materials & Method

Results

Discussion

Summary

References

Tables

Figures

Legends to Figures

A. A. Shokeir

Legends of all figures are written in a separate page usually after the tables.

Do not write the legend above or below the figure.

Legends to FiguresTitle page

Abstract

Introduction

Materials & Method

Results

Discussion

Summary

References

Tables

Figures

Legends to Figures

General Advice

A. A. Shokeir

Legends should be complementary to

the text, not repetitive.

Do not distract the reader too long

away from the text by writing too long

legend.

Legends to FiguresGeneral Advice

Title page

Abstract

Introduction

Materials & Method

Results

Discussion

Summary

References

Tables

Figures

Legends to Figures

A. A. Shokeir

ABSTRACTThe first to appear.

The last to be written.Must contain 4 paragraphs carrying the following titles:

1-Objective: aim of the study.

2-Materials and methods: the most important data.

3-Results: the most important data.

4-Conclusions.

Title page

Abstract

Introduction

Materials & Method

Results

Discussion

Summary

References

Tables

Figures

Legends to Figures

Word count: 200-300.

A. A. Shokeir

All conclusions should be supported by

the results of the study.

A common mistake is to write a

conclusion based on previous studies

and not supported by your own results.

Your conclusions should perfectly

satisfy the objectives of the study.

ABSTRACTConclusions

Title page

Abstract

Introduction

Materials & Method

Results

Discussion

Summary

References

Tables

Figures

Legends to Figures

A. A. Shokeir

Difference between conclusion,summary and abstract

Conclusion: Very few sentences expressing the message of the study.

Summary : It is an extended conclusion. It justifies and explains the conclusion.

Abstract : It contains the most important ideas. It is structured as objectives, methods, results and conclusion.

A. A. Shokeir

Verb Tenses

Introduction Present

Methods Past

Results Past

Discussion Present

Conclusion Present

A. A. Shokeir

Stru

ctur

eM

. Writing

Subject

Original ArticleThree Essential Requirements

“ Basic Triad ”

III- Mechanics of

Writing.

A. A. Shokeir

Who will Write?

When there are multiple authors, one

only must write the paper.

Too many writers produce a

patchwork of different styles.

A. A. Shokeir

Who will Write?

Authorship, like so many acquired

skills, must start early in life.

Junior should write.

Senior should revise.

A. A. Shokeir

Much research is

written up too

quickely.

It is wrong to believe

that research which

has taken 2 years to

complete can be

written satisfactorily

in 2 weeks.

A. A. Shokeir

Simplicity

ClarityRead Good Literature

Avoid The Cardinal Sins

Of Writing

Keys To Successful Writing

Avoid The Cardinal Sins Of Authors

A. A. Shokeir

Repetition

Cardinal Sins

Of Writing

Lack of Clarity

Wordiness

Pretentious writing

Use of Jargon

A. A. Shokeir

Dual Publication

Salami

Forgery

Cardinal Sins Of Authors

Plagiarism

alam Si

A. A. Shokeir

Sequence of WritingPreparing To Write

1- Choose something worthwhile to report.

2- Search the literature and read journals.

3- Collect data.

4- Write a provisional title.

5- Look at the proposed journal.

A. A. Shokeir

Sequence of WritingFirst version

Write the paper in the following sequence:

1- Materials and methods.

2- Results (provisional tables, illustrations and figures).

3- Discussion.

4- Introduction.Write the maximum information you have.

A. A. Shokeir

Sequence of WritingSecond version

Arrange the ideas in their correct sequence.

Carefully revise the tables, illustrations and figures.

Examine the whole paper and ask yourself 3 questions:

1- Is the item necessary?

2- Is it in the correct section?

3- Are all necessary items included?

A. A. Shokeir

Sequence of WritingThird version

Discriminate between what is of primary and what is of secondary importance.

Ask yourself the following questions:

1- What can be shortened?

2- What can be simplified?

3- What can be collected all together?

4- What can be omitted?

A. A. Shokeir

Sequence of WritingFourth version

1- Finalize the references.

2- Write the abstract and summary.

3- Choose a final title.

A. A. Shokeir

Sequence of WritingFinal version

1- Revise and test the style.

- Every statement must be tested (expressive, simple, concise).

- Be sure of the meaning of every word.

2- Revise spelling, grammar and syntax.

A. A. Shokeir

Sequence of WritingFinal version

3- Ask co-authors to check.

4- Ask a consultant with reviewer experience to read it independently.

“You read what you think you said not what you did say”.

A. A. Shokeir

Size and quality do not go hand in hand.

A. A. Shokeir

Common Reasons For Rejection

1- The article is not relevant to the journal.

2- The paper is not styled for the journal.

3- Poorly designed trial.

4- Badly written manuscript.

5- The conclusions are unjustified.

6- Reviewer/editor bias.

A. A. Shokeir

Golden Advice

1- Start Now- Writing, like every other

art, cannot be learned

wholly from books or

lectures.

- But the art, the craft, can

be learned only “on the

job”.

A. A. Shokeir

Golden Advice

1- Start Now- The best teacher is to

start, to go and to keep going.

- The act of writing, like surgical technique, has to be learned the hard way-by practice.

A. A. Shokeir

Golden Advice

2- Do Not Stop

“Once you start you have to finish”.

“Anyone can stop writing but only a writer can finish”.

A. A. Shokeir

Golden Advice

3- Keep Going

In spite of all your hard work, the paper may

still be rejected.

Do not be discouraged.

Use the reviewer’s comments to write a

better manuscript.

A. A. Shokeir

Aim

Design

Materials & methods

Results

References, tables & figures

Abstract

CONCLUSION

HARVEST

The original article is like a human body

A. A. Shokeir

THANK YOU