The Writing Process: Prewriting

After dedicating considerable focus to completing your research project, it's time to shift your attention to the writing process. With meticulous planning already in place, you're now ready to transition to the prewriting phase of your manuscript. 

In this crucial stage, you will first delve into creating the figures and tables essential for conveying complex data within the manuscript. Then, begin to organize your thoughts into a structured outline that will serve as a map that guides you through the writing process. 

Let’s explore the significance of prewriting and the transformative role it plays in bringing your research to life on paper. 

Figures and Tables 

Incorporating figures and tables into your manuscript can greatly enhance its clarity and accessibility. These display items offer a quick and efficient way to communicate complex information to your readers, often more effectively than lengthy paragraphs of text.  

As many readers will turn to your display items first, it's crucial to ensure they can stand alone and convey your most significant results clearly. These well-designed figures and tables not only capture readers' attention but also encourage them to explore your work further.  

High-quality figures and tables lend your manuscript a professional appearance by signaling to readers that your work is rigorous and trustworthy. When deciding which results to present visually, consider whether certain data would be better understood through a figure or table rather than in text form.  

To learn more about incorporating figures and tables into your manuscript, check out these resources:  

Creating Attractive and Effective Figures for Your Academic Paper 

• Figures and tables efficiently convey complex information. 
• They are the initial point of contact and highlight key results. 
• Well-designed display items make your manuscript more professional. 
• Focus on clarity, effective captions, and adherence to basic rules when creating figures. 

Figure and File Type Basics 

• Dealing with a variety of file types can be challenging when generating figures for manuscripts. 
• Knowing the strengths and weaknesses of each file type can help you make informed decisions about storing visual data.

Abbreviations in Figures: Saving Space but Frustrating Readers? 

• Using unnecessary abbreviations in figures can hinder readability. 
• Avoiding excessive abbreviations in figure design is beneficial for posters and presentations. 
• It's crucial to consider when and how to use abbreviations effectively in figures. 

Writing an Effective Figure Legend 

• Effective legends are crucial for clarity. 
• A good legend should include a descriptive title, concise methods, clear results, and explanations of figure features. 
• Keep captions succinct and consistent in style and tense. 
• Ensure accuracy in nomenclature and seek permission for reproduced content. 

Guidelines for Using Figures and Tables in Your Research Manuscript [Free Downloadable Guide Included] 

• Copyright permissions determine usage rights for figures or tables in publications. 
• Original figures typically don't require permission. 
• Reproduced or adapted figures necessitate permission and attribution to the original source. 
• Check publisher policies and seek guidance if uncertain. 

Avoiding Image Fraud: 7 Rules for Editing Images 

• Journals meticulously examine figures for possible manipulation. 
• Guidelines define permissible alterations, stressing transparency and integrity. 
• Retaining original files, disclosing adjustments, and maintaining consistency are essential when modifying images for publication. 

“Data Not Shown” - 4 Reasons to Omit a Figure or Table 

• Reasons for omitting data may include confirmatory results, negative results, peripheral findings, and future publications. 
• Some journals discourage the use of "data not shown." 
• Incorporating additional findings is often more feasible. 
• Authors should evaluate journal policies.

Outlines 

As an experienced researcher, you understand the critical components of a successful manuscript, the title page, abstract, introduction, methods, results, discussion, and references. These sections serve as the foundation for your outline. 

Go through all the notes and data associated with your research project and assign it to one of these categories. If the information doesn’t seem to fit anywhere, highlight and file it away for later use when the situation is more appropriate. 

You want your outline to flow like this:

Once these big concepts are in place, review your outline and continue nesting all the details under the associated topic until they are all accounted for. As you do this, think about the relationships between sections and how each piece of information is connected.  

By following a logical hierarchy, creating an outline provides the opportunity to structure your thoughts and data systematically. This helps maintain coherence, ensures nothing is overlooked, and guarantees a smooth flow of information. 

Final Thoughts 

The significance of prewriting cannot be overstated. By transforming raw data into a cohesive narrative that captivates readers, it breathes life into your research. It acts as a cornerstone of effective scientific communication, one that ensures clarity, coherence, and impact. 

Armed with the tools of prewriting, you can now harness its transformative power to elevate your research endeavors and make meaningful contributions by putting forth a quality manuscript. In the words of Louis L’Amour, “Knowledge is like money: to be of value it must circulate, and in circulating it can increase in quantity and, hopefully, in value.”