INVITED PAPER
10.31246/mjn-2026-invited-01
- VernacularTitle:A strategic guide to writing your first research paper
- Author:
Lim See Meng
1
;
Poh Bee Koon
1
Author Information
1. Centre for Community Health Studies (ReaCH), Faculty of Health Sciences, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
- Publication Type:Journal Article
- Keywords:
academic publishing;
manuscript preparation;
publication ethics;
scientific writing
- From:
Malaysian Journal of Nutrition
2026;32(No. 2):274-284
- CountryMalaysia
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
Introduction: Writing a research paper is a fundamental skill for researchers, yet many
early-career scientists face challenges due to limited formal training in scientific writing.
This paper serves as a practical guide for graduate students and early-career researchers
preparing their first research manuscript. Methods: Drawing on published guidance,
editorial perspectives and best practices in scientific communication, this paper outlines
the key components of a research manuscript, including the title, abstract, introduction,
methods, results, discussion, conclusion and references. Emphasis is placed on the
IMRaD (Introduction, Methods, Results and Discussion) structure, effective manuscript
organisation and appropriate writing techniques. Results: This guide provides practical
recommendations to support the preparation of clear, coherent and publication-ready
manuscripts. By systematically explaining the purpose and structure of each manuscript
section, it helps novice researchers develop confidence in scientific writing. Additional
considerations related to manuscript revision, journal selection, submission procedures,
cover letter preparation, plagiarism screening, responsible use of artificial intelligence tools
and ethical conduct are also discussed. Common pitfalls that may hinder publication,
including poorly defined research questions, inadequate reporting and non-compliance
with journal requirements, are highlighted together with strategies to avoid them.
Conclusion: Successful scientific writing requires clarity, organisation, methodological
rigour and ethical integrity. By understanding the purpose and structure of each
manuscript section and adopting best practices in writing and publication, early-career
researchers can communicate their findings more effectively and contribute meaningfully
to the advancement of knowledge in their respective fields.
- Full text:2026090314531283897INVITED PAPER A strategic guide to writing your first research paper.pdf
