Writing From the Wards, BUSM Researchers Share Advice for Residents

Published articles share information and ideas across fields and can be a part of educational and career development. Academic and personal interests are the typical motivators, however, according to BUSM researchers many residents have trouble with the logistics of writing and the simple act of getting started. In an original article published recently in the journal Neurologist, Dr. Michael Perloff, an assistant professor of neurology and his colleagues, give concrete advice, structural recommendations and addresses logistical concerns in writing manuscripts, focusing on case reports.

The article reviews different types of case reports: from the classic sentinel case, to case series, and video submissions, to teaching cases. A “how to” strategy is presented in the writing process, from idea, to data, to writing itself. Aspects such as choosing your audience and journal are discussed, as well as employing coauthors and working together to produce a polished manuscript.

“Residents and fellows are immersed in clinical medicine but may not possess experience in writing journal articles. We present advice on and logistics of writing manuscripts that are based on clinical data and clinical experience. Through utilizing a structured approach and understanding the practicalities involved, more physicians in training can write from the wards,” said Perloff who is the lead author of the article.