How to Write a Paper
Writing a good paper is dependent upon many factors ranging from the level of contribution to writing style. Often academics will be prolific and energetic researchers but lag in writing. If you find the writing much less interesting than the research, consider these motivations:
- You are proud of your research. You must publish the research in an "archival" journal for it to reach its true potential audience, both now and in the future. Readers throughout the globe may find and gain value from your published work. This might happen next year and it might happen ten years hence. The paper ensures that the research is properly recorded and available.
- Despite the many shortcomings of the current academic progression system, a universal part of it is peer reviewed publications, of which, archival journal publications are the most valued. To realize your academic career you must publish your research in journals. This is necessary for promotion, tenure, moves to other institutions, sabbatical and summer opportunities at national laboratories and international institutions and rotational opportunities at the National Science Foundation and other agencies.
- If you work with graduate students (and sometimes undergraduate students) on research, publication is a tangible outcome which is a permanent part of their C.V./resume. This can be critical in obtaining employment in either academia, government or industry, or in gaining admission to graduate school.
In summary, don't view writing the paper of your work as an extra or a burden - view it as the natural progression of conducting a good research project. Publishing means your work will always be available to those that may find it of interest.
The following links provide general advice on the paper construction: