Publishing a research paper in a journal or conference is an important activity within the academic community. It allows you to network with other scholars and to further refine your ideas and research. Academic journals are probably the most common place for scholars to publish their research. Find the most suitable academic journal for your topic and writing style so you can tailor your research paper easily and increase its chance of being published.

Familiarize yourself with potential publications. It is important to be aware of the research already published and the current questions and studies in your field. Pay special attention to how other research papers are written: the format, the type of articles (quantitative studies versus qualitative ones, primary research, review of existing papers), the writing style, the subject matter, and the vocabulary.

• Read academic journals related to your field of study.
• Search online for published research papers, conference papers, and journal articles.
• Ask a colleague or professor for a suggested reading list

Choose the publication that best suits your research paper. Each publication has its own audience and tone of writing. Decide if your research paper would fit better in a journal that is highly technical and meant only for other scholars or a journal that is more general in nature that would appeal to a broader audience.

Prepare your manuscript. Format your research paper so it fits the guidelines for that publication. Most journals provide a document called "Instruction to Authors" or "Author's Guide" that offers specific instructions about layout, type font, and length. This guide will also tell you how to submit your paper and will provide details of the review process.

Ask a colleague and/or professor to review your research paper. They should edit your paper for grammar, spelling errors, typos, clarity, and conciseness. At this time, they should also verify your content. Research papers need to present an issue that is significant and relevant. They should be clearly written, easy to follow, and appropriate for the intended audience. Have two or three people review your paper, more if possible.

Revise your paper. It is likely you will go through three or four drafts before final submission of your research paper. Make a special effort to make your paper clear, engaging, and easy to follow. This will greatly increase your chances of being published.