¿Cómo empiezo a escribir mis artículos científicos?

Introduction

Writing a scientific article for publication in an indexed journal can be a daunting task. This tutorial aims to provide you with practical steps and advice based on Dra. Mitzuko Dautt Castro's insights. By following these guidelines, you can streamline your writing process and enhance the quality of your scientific articles.

Step 1: Understand Your Audience

• Identify the target audience for your article.
• Tailor your writing style and complexity based on their level of expertise.
• Consider the specific journals you are aiming for and their readership.

Step 2: Choose a Relevant Topic

• Select a topic that is significant and contributes to your field of study.
• Ensure your topic is not overly broad or too narrow.
• Conduct preliminary research to confirm the availability of relevant data and literature.

Step 3: Create an Outline

• Structure your article by creating a detailed outline.
• Include essential sections such as:
  • Introduction
  • Methods
  • Results
  • Discussion
  • Conclusion
• This outline will serve as a roadmap for your writing process.

Step 4: Conduct Thorough Research

• Gather and review existing literature related to your topic.
• Take notes on key findings, methodologies, and gaps in the research.
• Use citation management tools to organize references.

Step 5: Write the Draft

• Begin with the Introduction, clearly stating your research question and objectives.
• Follow the outline to write each section, ensuring logical flow and coherence.
• Focus on clarity; avoid jargon unless necessary, and provide definitions for technical terms.

Step 6: Revise and Edit

• Take a break after your first draft before revising.
• Look for structural issues, clarity, and consistency in your arguments.
• Edit for grammar, punctuation, and formatting according to the journal's guidelines.

Step 7: Seek Feedback

• Share your draft with colleagues or mentors for constructive criticism.
• Be open to suggestions and willing to make necessary changes.
• Use feedback to improve the overall quality of your article.

Step 8: Finalize and Submit

• Prepare the final version of your article.
• Ensure all references are correctly formatted and included.
• Submit your article following the journal's submission process, paying attention to guidelines.

Conclusion

Writing a scientific article is a meticulous process that requires careful planning and execution. By understanding your audience, choosing a relevant topic, and following a structured approach, you can enhance your chances of publication. Remember to seek feedback and be open to revisions, as these steps are crucial for producing high-quality scientific work. With practice and patience, you will improve your writing skills and contribute valuable knowledge to your field.