HOW TO WRITE YOUR FIRST REVIEW PAPER BEING A NAÏVE RESEARCHER

Review paper writing though sought an easy task, it isn’t. Often it is confused with going through all the literature required for particular research and at other times it taken as an essential part to complete course credit. On the other end, the huge research community sites it as a methodology to gather complete knowledge on a topic from an expert in the field. This is where the gap lies and here in this article, I will help you to build a bridge. But before, I start to let me make it clear review paper writing or literature review is not a copy-paste thing nor it portrays of the mere background of your work.

The review paper is a written document of up to date research and findings were done in a particular field and thus few points are really necessary to understand. Firstly, a review paper isn’t just about papers published in journals, it is also about all the other materials authentically documented such as conference proceedings, books, patents, case studies, letters, thesis and even unpublished yet on-going research in a particular field. But with this, it is even necessary to note that you should not include irrelevant materials, plagiarised materials, unauthenticated data or materials that are yet to be proved. Secondly, it is important that the review paper should provide accurate information, along with clear statements regarding loopholes, troubles, demerits and/or limitations of a research area or topic. It should as far as possible also clearly quote future scope and current research going in the field. Third, there is a usual debate regarding the amount of content or number of papers to be included; honestly, there is no such thing as limit while writing a review paper, usually more the merrier but at times few journals have publishing limits also it is suggested that review paper should not look like a thesaurus. Next, you should keep in mind you are not writing a novel at the same time review papers may sound like history or storytelling so choose the language, words and expressions wisely; even too mundane won’t encourage readers to go on. Moreover, data tabulated, charted or added as supplementary materials is more anticipated rather than mere plain text. A graphical abstract if possible can also be a good way to begin your paper with; images always lure readers.

Coming next to level of expertise required for writing a review paper; of course I believe if you are reading this article for knowledge you aren’t an expert in academia but that doesn’t mean you cannot write a review article, but I suggest a few things before you start writing you very first review paper. To begin with, reading a lot of review papers written not just in your field but others too, this will help you understand the flow of writing and language skills required. The next important thing is your passionate interest and reading about your topic more you read better you can write. Never try to repeat or simply rephrase written works, try to establish a connection between all the articles and then write; a dashboard will be really helpful. Do not hesitate to use referencing software while writing they are really handy and easy to use and helpful. Also, remember review paper isn’t one-time writing; your first draft and final published version can be generational different, but that’s good. Also, take help from peers for language as well as the content of the paper.

Ethics is an important aspect, do not hold loose on it, so first thing no plagiarism, no copy-pasting or even straight art of stealing. If you are willing to make use of particular data, make sure the original contributors grant you permission and also you have the permission for republishing. It is highly recommended to cite every document you have the slightest reference to in your paper.

Lastly, publication guidelines, make sure of following when you are ready with your manuscript; you have carefully chosen a journal for your article and thoroughly understood the publication guidelines. Non-adherence to guidelines results in strict rejection. You must seek help from publication experts or your faculty members if you find it difficult to understand any of it. If language is a big barrier for you, most publication house has their own language editing team you can definitely use them too.

To conclude, it is necessary to have a deep interest in your research topic, this will keep you motivated while writing a paper; also remember paper writing is a roller coaster; especially if you are part-time researcher or multi-tasking. Writing review paper needs persistence, focus and the skill of understanding and explaining, make sure you stick to it.

"Good Luck for Writing!!"