I have to begin a research project as a part of my graduate degree. I have never written something outside of coursework. I am working on an idea currently but don’t know how the entire process works. How do I turn an idea into a publishable paper? My field is in Criminology and Criminal Justice. I am lost and don’t know what steps it requires to get from the start of an idea to the finalized publishable paper.
I know the basics of using research databases and tools, but I am not sure if there are best practices while conducting an analysis of literature on the topic I’m researching.
I could really use a step by step guide that provides an understanding of each step in the process of creating and publishing a research paper. I am open to any questions as well that may help tone your advice for me. Please also feel free to message me with any questions or advice if you would like. Thank you!
Comments
Read Bryman’s Social Research Methods. Don’t worry about publication at this stage, just focus on getting your ethics application approved with a solid research plan. One step at a time.
You are asking what you learn to do in a PhD
Talk to people. Specifically your advisor, your committee, and a peer group. Develop a peer group if you don’t have one.
Prof here… if you are a graduate student you should be asking your faculty advisor (or your other graduate professors) these questions, not a bunch of unvetted anonymous people on Reddit.
Also, many graduate programs require you to take a research methods class. If your program does not require it, but offers it, take it anyway.