Tips for scholarly writing in nursing
Affiliation.
- 1 School of Nursing, Indiana University, Indianapolis 46202-5107, USA.
- PMID: 10659514
- DOI: 10.1016/s8755-7223(00)80006-x
Professional nurses, and certainly those in academia and nursing service leadership positions, are experiencing an increasing need for writing skills. Among the most important skills required for scholarly writing are those relating to critical thinking. With this in mind, suggestions for scholarly writing in nursing are presented in this article, organized according to Paul's criteria for critical thinking: clarity, precision, specificity, accuracy, relevance, consistency, logicalness, depth, completeness, significance, fairness, and adequacy for purpose. Although becoming proficient in scholarly writing takes time and effort, the rewards in terms of career advancement, professional contributions, and personal satisfaction and enjoyment are considerable.
- Guidelines as Topic
- Nursing / standards*
- Writing / standards*
An official website of the United States government
The .gov means it’s official. Federal government websites often end in .gov or .mil. Before sharing sensitive information, make sure you’re on a federal government site.
The site is secure. The https:// ensures that you are connecting to the official website and that any information you provide is encrypted and transmitted securely.
- Publications
- Account settings
- Advanced Search
- Journal List
- HHS Author Manuscripts
A Program to Enhance Writing Skills for Advance Practice Nurses
Rachel hirschey.
a Duke University School of Nursing 307 Trent Drive, Durham NC, 27710
* Dr. Hirschey changed institutions after the work described in this manuscript was completed. She is currently at: University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, School of Nursing 513 Carrington Hall Chapel Hill, NC 27599
Cheryl Rodgers
** Cheryl Rodgers Tragically died ins July 2019
Marilyn Hockenberry
*** Marilyn Hockenberry retired from Duke in September 2019
Advance practice nurses (APNs) make important contributions to scholarly journals that are derived from scientific evidence and clinical practice. This article presents a writing program designed to enhance APNs’ writing skills with a series of online modules, a workshop, and manuscript checklist. The program was implemented in a Doctor of Nursing Practice program and evaluated with a writing self-efficacy scale and open-ended questions. Findings indicate that self-efficacy was high after the writing program, and the checklist was useful. This program has great potential as course in a nursing school’s curriculum or as a continuing education class. Participants can use the program’s tools to maintain their writing skills and enhance publication success throughout their careers.
A Program to Enhance Writing Skills for Advance Practice Registered Nurses
In addition to being expert clinicians, advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) frequently assume nursing faculty and leadership positions ( American Association of Colleges of Nursing, 2006 ). In these roles they must contribute to nursing science by disseminating clinical projects through publications ( Melnyk, 2013 ). The contributions made to science by nurse clinicians are significant and unique because they are developed from both scientific evidence and clinical practice ( Roush, 2017 ). Publishing their findings in scholarly journals benefits the scientific community and supports career advancement for these nurses.
Unfortunately, expert nurse clinicians publish less, compared to research nurses and nursing professors ( Oman, Mancuso, Ceballos, Makic, & Fink, 2016 ). Thus, they often feel unqualified to contribute to scientific literature ( Bowling, 2013 ). Reasons frequently given for low publication rates include poor writing skills and low writing self-efficacy ( Derouin, Hueckel, Turner, Hawks, Leonardelli, & Oermann, 2015 ; Tyndall & Caswell, 2017 ). Self-efficacy is one’s belief in his/her capability to complete a desired activity ( Bandura, 1986 ). Increasing self-efficacy has been shown to improve writing skills ( Miller, Russell, Cheng, & Skarbek, 2015 ), thus it is important to invest in and support scientific writing among nurses.
Several strategies have been found to increase writing skills and self-efficacy among nurses. A structured writing course or workshop is one of the most effective formats to increase publication rates among nurses ( Derouin et al., 2015 ; McGrail, Rickard, & Jones, 2006 ). For example, 8 nurses participating in a one-week intensive writing class and a monthly writing group increased publication rates by 73% over two years ( Rickard, McGrail, Jones, O’Meara, Robinson, Burley, & Ray-Barruel, 2009 ). Courses that have proven most effective are those taught by writing experts. For example, a series of four writing workshops, led by experienced editors, increased publication knowledge, confidence, and motivation among nursing university staff and affiliates ( Wilson, Sharrad, Rasmussen, & Kernick, 2013 ). These workshops were led by an experienced publisher or editor. However, it is often difficult for clinicians to attend a series of workshops on specific dates due to their variable and busy work schedules. Online writing programs, which offer scheduling flexibility and instruction similar to in-person workshops, are a potential solution. In a study of 52 nursing students who had successfully completed an online 16-week writing course, Miller et al. (2015) found significant improvement in writing self-efficacy and writing competency among the students who had successfully completed the course.
Unfortunately, writing courses alone are associated with challenges, such as information retention. While information retention varies among learners, on average individuals forget about 55% of what they learn within eight years of course completion ( Thalheimer, 2010 ). A promising tool to increase information retention and recall may be a checklist that summarizes writing course content. In health care, checklists are common and effective in assuring the quality and safety of processes and products ( Gawande, 2009 ). For example, a strong correlation has been demonstrated between post-operative complications and the World Health Organization’s (WHO) Surgical Safety Checklist ( Bergs et al., 2014 ). In addition to improving health care delivery, checklists are emerging as an effective means to improve scientific writing. Experts promote that writing tools, such as checklists, can improve the transparency of research methodology in manuscripts ( Marušić, 2015 ). For example, in one randomized controlled trial a checklist improved the completeness of manuscripts among graduate medical school and public health students ( Barnes, Boutron, Giraudeau, Porcher, Altman, & Ravaud, 2015 ). An additional benefit of a writing checklist is that it facilitates self-evaluation, which has been shown to increase writing self-efficacy among nursing students ( Schunk, 2003 ).
This article presents a writing program designed to enhance scientific writing skills among practicing APRNs currently enrolled in a graduate program. The writing program was designed by nurse faculty and includes online modules and a half-day workshop taught by an expert nurse author/editor. Additionally, a writing checklist that was created to build and enrich scientific writing skills among APRNs was implemented and evaluated during the writing program.
Setting and subjects
Participants included APRNs who were enrolled in a doctor of nursing practice (DNP) program at a large university in the southeastern United States. This program was created, implemented, and evaluated by DNP faculty, with the intention of improving APRN writing skills through the curriculum. According to policy at our institution the project was viewed as internal review board exempt since it was not considered human subjects research. All students were required to complete the program, however providing feedback on the program was optional.
The program
The writing program consists of four online modules and a four-hour on-campus writing workshop delivered over one semester. The online modules were facilitated by a DNP faculty member. The program began with access to all of the online modules. Students were asked to review each module that followed with a writing assignment or optional quizzes graded as pass/fail. Module content was selected through consultation with authors who are peer reviewers and/or editors of scholarly journals. Module topics included:
- Scholarly writing and style
- Mechanics of scholarly writing
- Grammar, vocabulary, and formatting
- Organizing a scholarly paper
At approximately week 7 into the course, students attended the writing workshop. The workshop was led by an expert author and editor, who was a member of the DNP faculty. The workshop began with a lecture followed by writing exercises in which student were asked to apply what they had learned from the online modules. Next, DNP faculty members trained students on use of the checklist. Students were asked to use the checklist to evaluate two paragraphs of a peer’s writing. This evaluation was followed by a peer discussion in which students discussed areas they each could focus on to improve writing. Faculty members were available to answer student questions.
The checklist.
The checklist (detailed in Figure 1 ) was created by the first and third authors of this article. It draws from the online modules and workshop content to help writers identify weaknesses and discern when a manuscript has been edited sufficiently and is ready for submission. The checklist is divided into five sections: (1) overall content of the writing; (2) paragraph structure; (3) sentence structure; (4) words; and (5) throughout the paragraphs, which refers to consistency between paragraphs. The checklist is designed in a concise manner that instructs the writer to review each item, then check yes or no if that item was sufficiently addressed. If an item needs improvement, indicated by a check in a gray box, then the writer can revert to the module content that addresses those specific writing skills and edit the manuscript. The checklist can be used independently, or it can be used for peer review. If used for peer review, the checklist contains instructions about how to edit a document. These peer review edits can provide an author with guidance on how to improve their writing.
The Writing Checklist
Self-efficacy.
Writing self-efficacy was measured as a proximal outcome to writing skills that may have been acquired through the program. It was selected as the outcome of interest because it facilitates writing skills ( Miller, Russell, Cheng, & Skarbek, 2015 ). Self-efficacy was measured by a modified version of the Post-Secondary Writerly Self-Efficacy Scale (see Table 1 ) that has excellent reliability (Cronbach’s Alpha 0.931 and split-half reliability 0.864) ( Schmidt & Alexander, 2012 ), and has been previously used with nursing students ( Miller et al., 2015 ). The measure includes 13 items about writing self-efficacy that are scored with a level of agreement of 0% to 100%, higher scores indicate more agreement.
Writing Self-Efficacy Scores
Checklist evaluation.
Students were also asked three open-ended questions about the checklist. Specifically, they were asked what was most and least useful about the writing checklist, and any additional thoughts or comments about the checklist. Finally, information was collected about the date they received their previous degree and if they had ever published an article in a peer-reviewed journal.
A total score, means, and standard deviations were calculated for each item on the Post-Secondary Writerly Self-Efficacy Scale using Excel version 15.33. Responses to the open-ended questions were coded individually by the first and second authors to identify common themes. Coding discrepancies were discussed and resolved.
This program was implemented with APRNs who were enrolled in a DNP program. Individual demographics were not obtained. However, demographic data for the DNP cohort are presented in Table 2 . The self-efficacy scale and checklist evaluation were optional to complete, and 70% of the cohort (76 of the 109 students) completed the forms. These 76 students graduated from their last nursing program an average of five years ago (BSN or MSN). Of the 76 students who completed the program and evaluation, 9 (24%) had previously published in a scholarly journal.
Student Demographics
Writing self-efficacy
Writing self-efficacy scores for each item of the scale are detailed in Table 1 . The overall self-efficacy average score was 79% (SD 8) which corresponds to “agree” on the measure.
Checklist components
Three main themes emerged about the most useful parts of the checklist. First, students reported the most useful thing about the checklist was its user-friendly format (n=29). For example, one individual commented that “it is clean and precise in stating the expectations for good scientific writing.” Second, students reported that the checklist identified areas of writing that needed improvement (n=9). For example, one student wrote that it “helped find my weakness,” and another stated it “clearly identified the components that need to be corrected.” Finally, the third theme is that the checklist guides the process of self-editing (n=9). One student said that it “breaks down the details of what to look for,” and another wrote that it is an “organized way to edit and review.”
When asked what was least useful about the checklist, most of the students, who provided a response, stated nothing or that everything was great (n=10). However, 2 of the 76 students who completed the evaluation identified a specific section as least useful (the sentence and throughout the paragraph sections). Four students thought the checklist was too long, and two students felt they needed more time to learn how to use it.
Finally, students provided additional feedback. Eight students had positive remarks about the checklist and indicated they plan to use the checklist in the future. One student stated “it’s very helpful for understanding how to improve my writing.” Four students made suggestions to improve the checklist, and three students recommended more training and time with the checklist. Only two students expressed uncertainty about the usefulness of the checklist.
In general, the writing self-efficacy scores indicate that overall students have a positive belief about their ability to write scholarly papers. This multi-component writing program contains scientific writing skills that APRNs need to improve nursing care and science. The checklist expands upon existing writing education strategies for nurses. It can be applied to a draft document at any time throughout a nurse’s scholarly career. Due to clinical obligations, nurses may have lengthy amounts of time between scholarly writing. The checklist tool is something they can pick up at any time to refresh their memories of how to construct their scholarly papers.
Several limitations should be considered with this program. First, this information was tested among nurses currently enrolled in a DNP program who are likely writing more than the general APRN population. Second, pre-program writing self-efficacy was not assessed. Thus, a recall bias may have existed as nurses reflected on their pre-program writing self-efficacy to complete post-program measures. Finally, self-efficacy scores were not obtained for 33 students who declined to participate in the evaluation process. The scores and opinions of these students may have altered the final results.
In conclusion, a writing program that includes a series of online lessons, a half-day workshop, and a writing checklist can provide nurses with the information and tools to participate in scholarly writing. This program can be implemented in schools and clinical sites as an instructional or refresher course for writing. Moreover, graduates of the course can refer to the checklist to evaluate their writing skills throughout their careers. Clinicians can use the checklist with colleagues to help guide and mentor the writing process. Additionally, the program could be implemented as a continuing education program to support staff development.
Acknowledgments:
This work was support by the National Institute of Nursing Research grant 1F31NR015690–01 and National Institute of Nursing Research 2T32NR007091
Written documentation granting permission to use the institution’s name: N/A
Disclosures: None
- American Association of Colleges of Nursing. (2006). The Essentials of Doctoral Education for Advanced Nursing Practice . Washington D.C. [ Google Scholar ]
- Bandura A (1986). Social Foundations of Thought and Action: A Social Cognitive Theory . Englewood Cliffs, NJ: Prentice Hall. [ Google Scholar ]
- Barnes C, Boutron I, Giraudeau B, Porcher R, Altman DG, & Ravaud P (2015). Impact of an online writing aid tool for writing a randomized trial report: the COBWEB (Consort-based WEB tool) randomized controlled trial . BMC Med , 13 ( 1 ), 221. doi: 10.1186/s12916-015-0460-y. [ PMC free article ] [ PubMed ] [ CrossRef ] [ Google Scholar ]
- Bergs J, Hellings J, Cleemput I, Zurel O, De Troyer V, Van Hiel M, …Vandijck D. (2014). Systematic review and meta-analysis of the effect of the World Health Organization surgical safety checklist on postoperative complications . Br J Surg , 101 ( 3 ), 150–158. doi: 10.1002/bjs.9381. [ PubMed ] [ CrossRef ] [ Google Scholar ]
- Bowling AM (2013). Writing for publication: You can do it . J Pediatr Nurs , 28 ( 6 ), 616–619. doi: 10.1016/j.pedn.2013.08.002. [ PubMed ] [ CrossRef ] [ Google Scholar ]
- Derouin AL, Hueckel RM, Turner KM, Hawks SJ, Leonardelli AK, & Oermann MH (2015). Use of workshops to develop nurses “and nursing students” writing skills . J Contin Educ Nurs , 46 ( 8 ), 364–369. doi: 10.3928/00220124-20150721-03. [ PubMed ] [ CrossRef ] [ Google Scholar ]
- Gawande A (2009). The Checklist Manifesto: How to Get Things Right . New York: Metropolitan Books. [ Google Scholar ]
- Marušić A (2015). A tool to make reporting checklists work . BMC Med , 13 ( 1 ), 243. doi: 10.1186/s12916-015-0476-3. [ PMC free article ] [ PubMed ] [ CrossRef ] [ Google Scholar ]
- McGrail MR, Rickard CM, & Jones R (2006). Publish or perish: a systematic review of interventions to increase academic publication rates . Higher Education Research & Development , 25 ( 1 ), 19–35. doi: 10.1080/07294360500453053. [ CrossRef ] [ Google Scholar ]
- Melnyk BM (2013). Distinguishing the preparation and roles of the doctor of philosophy and doctor of nursing practice graduates: National implications for academic curricula and health care systems . J Nurs Educ , 52 ( 8 ), 442–448. doi: 10.3928/01484834-20130719-01 [ PubMed ] [ CrossRef ] [ Google Scholar ]
- Miller LC, Russell CL, Cheng AL, & Skarbek AJ (2015). Evaluating undergraduate nursing students’ self-efficacy and competence in writing: Effects of a writing intensive intervention . Nurse Educ Pract , 15 ( 3 ),174–180. doi: 10.1016/j.nepr.2014.12.002. [ PubMed ] [ CrossRef ] [ Google Scholar ]
- Oman KS, Mancuso MP, Ceballos K, Makic MF, & Fink RM (2016). Mentoring clinical nurses to write for publication: Strategies for success . Am J Nurs , 116 ( 5 ), 48–55. doi: 10.1097/01.NAJ.0000482966.46919.0f. [ PubMed ] [ CrossRef ] [ Google Scholar ]
- Rickard CM, McGrail MR, Jones R, O’Meara P, Robinson A, Burley M, & Ray-Barruel G (2009). Supporting academic publication: Evaluation of a writing course combined with writers’ support group . Nurse Educ Today , 29 ( 5 ), 516–521. doi: 10.1016/j.nedt.2008.11.005. [ PubMed ] [ CrossRef ] [ Google Scholar ]
- Roush K (2017). Becoming a published writer . Am J Nurs , 117 ( 3 ), 63–66. doi: 10.1097/01.NAJ.0000513291.04075.82. [ PubMed ] [ CrossRef ] [ Google Scholar ]
- Schmidt KM, & Alexander JE (2012). The empirical development of an instrument to measure writerly self-efficacy in writing centers . Retrieved from: http://www.journalofwritingassessment.org/article.php?article=62
- Schunk DH (2003). Self-efficacy for reading and writing: Influence of modeling, goal setting, and self-evaluation . Reading &Writing Quarterly , 19 ( 2 ), 159–172. doi: 10.1080/10573560308219. [ CrossRef ] [ Google Scholar ]
- Thalheimer W (2010). How Much Do People Forget . Somerville, MA: Work-Learning Research. [ Google Scholar ]
- Tyndall DE, & Caswel NI (2017). Challenging the publication culture from “nice to do” to “need to do”: Implications for nurse leaders in acute care settings . Nurs Forum , 52 ( 1 ), 30–37. doi: 10.1111/nuf. [ PubMed ] [ CrossRef ] [ Google Scholar ]
- Wilson A, Sharrad S, Rasmussen P, & Kernick J (2013). Publish or perish: Ensuring longevity in nurse education-evaluation of a strategy to engage academics, students, and clinicians in publication activity . J Prof Nurs , 29 ( 4 ), 210–216. doi: 10.1016/j.profnurs.2012.04.024. [ PubMed ] [ CrossRef ] [ Google Scholar ]
Writing a Thesis for Nursing School
Contributing Writer
Learn about our editorial process .
Updated November 15, 2022 · 3 Min Read
Reviewed by
Theresa Granger
Contributing Reviewer
Our Integrity Network
NurseJournal.org is committed to delivering content that is objective and actionable. To that end, we have built a network of industry professionals across higher education to review our content and ensure we are providing the most helpful information to our readers.
Drawing on their firsthand industry expertise, our Integrity Network members serve as an additional step in our editing process, helping us confirm our content is accurate and up to date. These contributors:
- Suggest changes to inaccurate or misleading information.
- Provide specific, corrective feedback.
- Identify critical information that writers may have missed.
Integrity Network members typically work full time in their industry profession and review content for NurseJournal.org as a side project. All Integrity Network members are paid members of the Red Ventures Education Integrity Network.
Explore our full list of Integrity Network members.
Are you ready to earn your online nursing degree?
Writing a thesis presents an opportunity for graduate students to conduct scholarly inquiry, with the potential of publishing their finished paper. A thesis requires nursing students to identify a problem in nursing, and review academic literature while developing advanced research skills. Thesis advisors and committees guide students from the proposal phase to the final oral defense, a process that spans about two semesters.
Not every nursing student is required to complete a thesis. Some nursing programs offer a non-thesis option, in which candidates complete a final capstone project or oral examination on topics such as nursing theories and clinical practices.
The thesis process and requirements vary by school. Ohio State University’s master of science in nursing program’s final examination includes oral and written portions.
Want to know what to expect during the thesis process? Read on to learn how you can choose a thesis topic and orally defend your paper.
Choosing Your Nursing Thesis Topic
Nursing students must choose a thesis topic before they begin the research and writing process, typically within the first two terms of nursing school. A solid thesis must present an original argument, manageable research scope, and worthy academic pursuit. A thesis advisor or research professor will help to guide each student through the process of choosing a topic.
In the conceptual phase, candidates research potential thesis topics based on their interests within their nursing specialty. Students may start with a broad topic such as obesity and weight management, depression, or cardiovascular disease. To narrow their thesis argument, graduate students might focus on racial or ethnic groups, socio-economic issues, or current events.
After settling on a topic, students draft and submit a thesis proposal to an advisor or committee chair. Once this proposal has been approved, students can begin the formal work on his or her approved thesis topic.
While graduate students must complete a thesis to fulfill the requirements of a master’s degree in nursing, the thesis process also offers a chance for future nurses to immerse themselves in current academic literature and collaborate with fellow graduate students, faculty, and professors. A thesis can also serve as the foundation for doctoral studies. A thesis at the doctoral (PhD) level is called a dissertation.
Completing Your Nursing Thesis
Brainstorming a thesis topic begins as early as the first semester of a master’s in nursing program. The formal thesis process, which typically spans multiple terms, does not take place until the student's final year, usually during the last term.
Thesis requirements vary by school, and students must meet specific deadlines and take prerequisite courses beforehand. At the University of Texas-Houston’s School of Nursing , candidates take a public health class before they submit a thesis proposal.
Future nurses work under the guidance of a thesis committee and advisor. The experience of writing a thesis trains students in original investigation, data collection, implementing research design, and public speaking. Candidates also learn to flex their analytical thinking skills and master a specific area of nursing as they develop the ability to analyze and draw conclusions through data.
At a program's conclusion, students submit their thesis as a bound manuscript or electronic file. In addition to submitting a written report, students orally defend their final thesis in front of the committee. Many graduates also submit their manuscripts for publication.
Presenting Your Nursing Thesis
Graduate students generally orally defend their proposal and present their completed thesis in front of their committee. This committee also includes the thesis mentor, a faculty member specializing in the nursing discipline of their scholarly inquiry. There are generally 3 total committee members on a thesis committee.
Fellow graduate students or consultants outside of the college may attend presentations, if the process is open to the public. Otherwise, the thesis defense remains a private session, with students presenting their findings. The oral examination of the thesis takes up to one hour, but can last longer depending on how many questions the committee has for the student.
During that time, the committee evaluates the thesis based on how the research experience has shaped the student’s graduate education and the findings' significance to the nursing field. When the exam concludes, the committee either accepts or rejects the thesis defense.
How is a Nursing Thesis Graded?
Nursing schools rely on each committee to formally grade each product in the thesis process. Some graduate nursing students may receive a letter grade, while other nursing schools adhere to a “pass” or “fail” policy.
To determine a grade, the committee assesses the thesis based on set criteria. Committee members look at the project's key components, including the statement of purpose, literature review, research methodology, analysis, findings, and implications. The process and grading criteria for the thesis process can be found in the school's graduate handbook. Most of these handbooks are published online for student review.
The thesis must identify significant issues or service gaps in nursing and present them in a concise and coherent fashion. Candidates must support all findings and analysis by research and explain the implications for healthcare.
The oral defense also factors into the grade. The committee grades the defense based on the quality of the student’s presentation, taking into consideration if the student spoke clearly and presented a logical and well-organized argument.
What is the Difference Between a Nursing Thesis and a Capstone?
A nursing thesis and a capstone demonstrate the student’s comprehensive knowledge and educational journey. Graduate students in a non-research track may have the choice of completing a clinical project. Doctoral of Nursing ( DNP ) students complete a capstone project.
Graduate-level nursing students work on an original scholarly inquiry during their thesis, while undergraduates recap their cumulative learning experience. The thesis process, which includes completing nursing courses and writing a proposal, takes place over the entire program.
Learn more about the difference between a thesis and capstone project on this page .
Reviewed by:
NurseJournal.org is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.
Whether you’re looking to get your pre-licensure degree or taking the next step in your career, the education you need could be more affordable than you think. Find the right nursing program for you.
Popular Resources
Resources and articles written by professionals and other nurses like you.
Your web browser is out of date. Please, upgrade to Edge or another supported browser .
A Nurse's Step-By-Step Guide to Publishing a Dissertation or DNP Project
Early praise for a nurse's step-by-step guide to publishing a dissertation or dnp project :.
“The book breaks down the complexities of scholarly writing and provides key insight and vital guidance for publishing dissertations or DNP projects. A Nurse’s Step-By-Step Guide to Publishing a Dissertation or DNP Project will have a permanent place on my bookshelf and will be shared with new graduates and colleagues alike .”
— Nancy White Street, ScD, PPCNP-BC Julia and Harold Plotnick Professor of Global Nursing University of Massachusetts Dartmouth College of Nursing
“Karen Roush’s earlier book on writing a dissertation or scholarly project has become the ‘go-to’ resource for scores of doctoral students. In her new book, Roush has again demonstrated her unique knack for simplifying a process—the often-arduous steps necessary for turning a dissertation or capstone project into a manuscript worthy of publication. A must-read primer for anyone wanting to publish.”
— Wend y Budin, PhD, RN-BC, FAAN Professor & Associate Dean Entry to Baccalaureate Practice Division Editor-in-Chief, Journal of Perinatal Education Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey School of Nursing
INDIANAPOLIS — Creating a dissertation or academic project is a demanding and complicated process, presenting a unique set of challenges for authors. Navigating the publishing process presents further challenges. Creating the best article and finding the most appropriate journals often leaves first-time authors frustrated and intimidated.
In A Nurse’s Step-By-Step Guide to Publishing a Dissertation or DNP Project , award-winning author Karen Roush guides readers through the process of reworking a dissertation or DNP project into a high-quality manuscript and honing their writing skills. Roush then provides a step-by-step guide through the publication process, providing all the information necessary to fully understand and navigate the world of academic publishing.
“The full breadth and depth of nurses’ contributions are still not recognized by the healthcare community and the general public,” said Roush. “Publication is a powerful means of strengthening the voice of nursing and influencing how care is delivered.”
The author has also created material downloads, such as a Submission Checklist and a Top 10 Guide to Publishing, to support the use of this book in classroom and professional settings. These downloads are available for free at http://hdl.handle.net/10755/17097 .
This book is available at SigmaMarketplace.org/sigmabooks .
A Nurse’s Step-By-Step Guide to Publishing a Dissertation or DNP Project: Taking Your Paper From Graduation to Publication By Karen Roush, PhD, RN, FNP-BC Published by Sigma, 2019 ISBN-13: 9781948057370 EPUB ISBN: 9781948057387 PDF ISBN: 9781948057394 MOBI ISBN: 9781948057400 Price: US $39.95 Trade paperback, 208 pages Trim size: 5 3/8 x 8 3/8
About the author: Karen Roush, PhD, RN, FNP-BC, is founder of The Scholar’s Voice, which works to strengthen the voice of nursing through writing mentorship for nurses. A previous Editorial Director and Clinical Managing Editor for American Journal of Nursing, Roush is widely published, having authored multiple consumer healthcare books, nursing articles in peer-reviewed journals, essays, and poetry. She is also adjunct faculty at Pace University and The Graduate Center for the City University of New York.
About Sigma: The Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing (Sigma) is a nonprofit organization whose mission is advancing world health and celebrating nursing excellence in scholarship, leadership, and service. Founded in 1922, Sigma has more than 135,000 active members in over 100 countries and territories. Members include practicing nurses, instructors, researchers, policymakers, entrepreneurs, and others. Sigma’s more than 540 chapters are located at more than 700 institutions of higher education throughout Armenia, Australia, Botswana, Brazil, Canada, Colombia, England, Eswatini, Ghana, Hong Kong, Ireland, Israel, Jamaica, Japan, Jordan, Kenya, Lebanon, Malawi, Mexico, the Netherlands, Nigeria, Pakistan, Philippines, Portugal, Puerto Rico, Scotland, Singapore, South Africa, South Korea, Sweden, Taiwan, Tanzania, Thailand, the United States, and Wales.
Learn more at www.SigmaNursing.org .
Connect & Engage
This site uses cookies to keep track of your information. Learn more here . Accept and close .
We've made changes to our Privacy Policy to update how we work with international data and how we disclose your personal and non-personal data. Your continued use of this site represents your consent to these changes and to the site's use of cookies to monitor website traffic. Close
The work is hard. The rush is real.
Education , Student
Writing the Scholarly Nursing Paper
Writing guidance for nursing students.
One of the banes of nursing school is writing the dreaded nursing paper. Even if there’s one per class, that’s too many for most nurses. Although nurses can (and should) learn to write journal articles and health-focused content, let’s focus on scholarly papers for nursing school right now. These include papers such as literature reviews or research papers.
The great news about APA guidelines — they will remain constant throughout your nursing education. The not-so-great news — there’s a lot of APA info to know.
I’ve given you the basics here but one of the most thorough online APA Style help sites is the Purdue Online Writing Lab.
General APA Guidelines
- 1-inch margins on all sides
- 12-point fond Times Roman or Courier
- Use only one space after the end of sentences, initials in personal names, commas, colons, and semicolons.
- No more than 27 lines per page.
- Double spacing throughout, including reference page
- Text alignment should be flush left with uneven right margin (DO NOT justify the right margin)
- Indent each paragraph (5-7 spaces)
- Sections of the text follow each other without a page break. When a new heading occurs, DO NOT start a new page.
- DO NOT break words at the end of a typed line
- All pages are numbered in consecutive order beginning with the title page
- The manuscript header is in the upper right-hand corner
Writing Each Section
- First page of the manuscript.
- Type title centered and double spaced in upper and lower case
- Be sure your title is inclusive and summarizes the main idea of the paper.
- The title must be fully explanatory on its own.
- The title page contains the title, author’s name, and author’s affiliation: all centered in the upper half of the page
- The title page may or may not include the author’s contact information.
- You have been given a rubric to follow. It will show you how to format your paper. It is important to follow the rubric given to you by your instructor. Project points can be missed simply by failing to follow the rubric.
- Contains manuscript page header and running head
- Numbered as page 1
HOT TIP: The rubric provides information on how to format each section of your paper.
For more tips see: Three Tips For Writing Your Next Research Paper
- This is a brief but comprehensive summary of the whole article.
- It should succinctly cover the purpose, methods, results, and conclusions drawn by the author(s).
- It is often recommended by veteran writers to write the abstract last, after all the other sections have been written.
- According to APA style (2020), the abstract should not exceed 120 words.
- Typed as a single paragraph with NO indentation.
- Double spaced.
- Page 2 of the manuscript, includes page number and header
- The body of your paper will differ depending on what type of paper you’ve been asked to write.
- There is where content is shared.
- Start a new page (after the abstract, so will be page 3)
- Continue double-spacing throughout
- Begin the body with the manuscript Title centered in Upper & lower case
- All paragraphs are longer than one sentence but never longer than one page
- Number all pages and include header
The BODY may include these sections:
Introduction
- This is the real beginning of your paper, not the abstract.
- In a few paragraphs, introduce the topic stating why it’s important and its relationship with previous work.
- The introduction should give a solid sense of what was done and why it was done.
Literature Review
- A literature review will include a theoretical framework
- It involves identifying a relevant nursing or medical topic and exploring the current literature to identify trends, gaps, and conflicts in previous studies
- A well-researched literature review shows that the writer has a thorough understanding of the topic from which the author can explore new concepts and original ideas
The following sections are related to research papers and are discussed in a separate post.
Methods Section Participants/Subjects Instruments/Apparatus Procedure Results Section
Conclusion or discussion.
- This is the end of the paper but is not the final section.
- Use the conclusion to interpret your findings and discuss what you found. Begin with a clear statement of support or non-support for your original thesis.
- DO NOT introduce new information to this section.
- All statements and conclusions discussed should be supported by the data you found.
- Make recommendations to direct future research.
- Your final statement should be compelling and speak directly to the importance of your findings. Avoid vague or complicated language.
- This is the final section of your paper.
- Begin a new page.
- “References” is centered at the top of the page.
- List references in alphabetical order by the first author’s last name.
- If multiple references with the same last author, list in chronological order by year
- If same author and same year, use letter to differentiate.
Johnson, JE. (2020a)
Johnson, JE. (2020b)
- First line of reference is flush with left margin, all subsequent lines are indented (hanging indent)
- All references should be double spaced.
- References on this list MUST BE cited in the text. DO NOT list references here that you only read and did not mention in the manuscript.
- For articles with 1-5 authors: list all authors’ last names with their first and second initials (if given) in the order they appear on the manuscript.
- If the reference has 6 or more authors, list the first six and use et al. (to indicate the remaining)
Reference Examples:
Journal Article Johnson, J.E., & Feldmon, L.B. (2020). Strategies for writing a scholar nursing paper. American Journal of Professional Writing, 18, 120-123.
Web Document Johnson, J.E. & Feldmon, L.B. (2020). APA style guidelines and tips, Retrieved October 2, 2020, from Johnson University, Department of English from http://www.nprush.com/cfm?docid=873
Book Johnson J.E. & Feldmon, L.B. (2020). Writing for nurses past and present. NY: Springer.
Here’s help for Writing IMRAD: Introduction Method Results and Discussion. And don’t forget to download your FREE PDFs: APA Headings and Research Paper Checklist.
Don’t stop now! You’re on a roll!
Click here for more downloadable FREE PDFs .
Questions? Help? Contact me!
You may also like
Three Soft Skills New Nurses Need That May Surprise You
Time Management Tips for Students
Time Management Tips For Nurses at the Bedside
Data & Analytics
Gender & Diversity
Healthcare & Medicine
Librarian Community
Open Science
Research Intelligence
Research Community
Sustainability
Your Career
- Elsevier Connect
Tips for publishing in nursing journals
Nurses: we hope you will share your expertise by publishing your research in nursing journals – here’s how
Nurses play a vital role on the front lines healthcare. They solve problems at life-defining moments and create systems for improved patient care. Its a demanding field, and nurses make a massive contribution to the success of their institutions and the healthcare industry.
With such an immense learning curve and the clinical expertise required, nurses at all levels should take the opportunity to share their learnings by publishing their research and findings.
Not everyone realizes it, but nurses also conduct research . Nursing research is essential and has a direct impact on patient outcomes. Because of the nature of nursing, papers in nursing journals can come from a wide range of people, some who are unfamiliar with academic publishing and its nuances.
We caught up with with Dr. Mary C. Brucker , Editor of the journal Nursing for Women’s Health — an official journal of AWHONN . She answer frequently asked questions about publishing in top nursing journals and shares techniques and strategies to set yourself up for publishing success. You can also find out more in the recent webinar she held.
Webinar: How to publish with Nursing for Women’s Health
Watch this free webinar with Dr. Mary C. Brucker , Editor of Nursing for Women’s Health , to learn more about developing your paper for publication in premium nursing journals like Nursing for Women’s Health . If you add your questions to the Researcher Academy Mendeley group , we will try to find expert answers for you.
From which section should we start writing the manuscript? Is there a order you suggest?
No single answer exists for this question because it really depends on the author. However, I would make a few suggestions:
- Know what the main focus/aim/goal of the paper is, and make certain all the other parts hang on this skeleton.
- Design an outline: an outline can help you “plug” in different sections in any order without losing the thread.
Will bad grammar and writing impact my submission?
It is difficult to quantify how “bad” is “bad” regarding writing. Minor grammatical mistakes can happen even to the most experienced author. However, if the writing is so problematic that it does not convey information, the editor may choose to decline to review or possibly reject. The authors can decrease bad writing by using their own peer reviewer group to read and critique it before submission. You can explore author resources from Elsevier and also make use of Elsevier author services if required.
Do you have tips for graduate students when it comes to publications and research?
Yes: read, read and read more. The best way to learn to write a good article is to constantly read the same. Think ahead when designing research so it is based on evidence and the presentation is logical, ethical and clinically important. And follow author guidelines for a particular journal. Lastly, please consider Nursing for Women’s Health for publication!
Should a research paper only be submitted to a single journal at a given point of time?
Yes, it avoids duplicate publication by two journals and ultimately self-plagiarism. Contrary to years ago, when a paper could languish in the system for several months before the author heard the result, the author usually receives a decision much earlier. For example, the time to first decision in Nursing for Women’s Health is about five to six weeks.
Is there any limit for number of authors ?
No, as long as they meet the guidelines for authorship. Sometimes a person may be offered authorship because they facilitated the project occurring in a facility but did no writing or even revising of the paper. There are many guidelines to identify authorship. If in doubt, consider these ICMJE recommendations .
When coming to a decision, is the editor responsible for the final decision?
Yes, ultimately the editor is the individual responsible, but I would note that reviewers are integral to the process and directly influence the final decision. But it always rests with the editor.
Which reference style do you use – for example, Vancouver style, APA, etc? Why did you choose this specific style?
No perfect style format exists. NWH uses APA (the most current one) primarily because it is a nursing journal and nursing in general uses APA.
Since peer-review is a blinded process, should authors remove their name from the title page or will the journal do this after submission?
The author guidelines outline how a cover page is submitted separately from the paper in order to facilitate blinding. You can read the author guidelines for Nursing for Women’s Health as an example, but the guidelines may differ per journal.
I’ve heard people mention following PRISMA and SQUIRE. What are these?
These are standards regarding the format of publication for different types of research. PRISMA is to be used to report systematic reviews; SQUIRE for quality improvement projects; CONSORT for randomized controlled trials. Some information is available in the NWH author guidelines, but I encourage prospective authors to review the appropriate standards before conducting the research, and certainly before starting to write.
New researchers writing their first paper as PhDs often do make sloppy mistakes. Is this considered in terms of their junior position?
Remember, almost every article undergoes one (or usually more) revisions. So as long an article contains good information, the reviewers and I will try to help a new author (or new PhD) craft the article for publication. Do note that a dissertation/thesis/course paper are not formatted or designed to be an article. NWH actually has received papers with the faculty name and course number on it. The authors need to be familiar with NWH and follow author guidelines; that is good advice even for well-established authors.
Can authors from developing countries publish in nursing journals without any fee?
Yes. For example, many journals offer the option of publishing open access, and that option includes a fee. However, the vast majority of papers are can be published without any fees involved.
How do you deal with work that is “scooped” during the revision process? Or when papers discussing similar findings around the same time?
Although this is something that could happen, I have found almost universally that even with the same topic, most papers have different points of view. So ultimately, they are complementary and not duplicative.
Check out Elsevier’s nursing journals
Dr. Mary C. Brucker has been a nurse and midwife for more than 40 years. She has practiced in both public and private arenas in Mississippi, Chicago and Dallas. She was the director of Parkland School of Nurse-Midwifery from its inception in 1989 until its closure in 2006, and later a Professor at the Baylor University Louise Herrington School of Nursing until she retired in 2013.
Currently she is an Adjunct faculty member at Georgetown University . She is the Editor of AWHONN’s Nursing for Women's Health , a journal with a readership of close to 25,000 nurses. She also has written dozens of articles and book chapters that address a wide variety of midwifery and women's health topics. She is the editor of Pharmacology for Women's Health Care, which received the ANA Book of the Year Award in Maternal Child, and the sixth edition of Varney’s Midwifery.
Related stories
Yes, nurses do research, and it’s improving patient care
Nancy Blake, PhD, RN
Researcher stories
Teaching nursing students in the COVID-unknown
Jennifer Brunworth, EdD, MSN, RN
Clinical insight
Elsevier’s nurses look at current challenges and the world post-COVID
Contributors
Sneha Mittal Sachdeva
As a Marketing Communications Manager at Elsevier, Sneha Mittal Sachdeva manages content creation and researcher engagement for the premium brands channels Cell Press, The Lancet and Societies Publishing . Through these engaging channels, Sneha aims to provide helpful resources for early- and mid-career researchers to achieve publishing success. Sneha holds a master’s degree in business communications. In addition to being a foodie, she enjoys traveling, reading and writing on her blog. She is based in Amsterdam.
How the Elsevier Foundation is enabling women's leadership to address global challenges
Rebecca Clear
Before you stomp on the idea of eating bugs, see what this researcher has to say
Journalists learn from women scientists at global conference in Colombia
Elsevier.com visitor survey
We are always looking for ways to improve customer experience on Elsevier.com. We would like to ask you for a moment of your time to fill in a short questionnaire, at the end of your visit . If you decide to participate, a new browser tab will open so you can complete the survey after you have completed your visit to this website. Thanks in advance for your time.
How to create a Nursing Research Paper
Writing a nursing research paper is the same as writing any research paper in structure, source requirements, formatting, and style. A nursing research paper is typically based on evidence from scholarly nursing journal articles, nursing books, or other scholarly resources, primarily published within the last five years. It is scientific work that proves the academic writing and research prowess of a nursing student. Therefore, the choice of language, structuring, and data should be meticulous in earning you the best grade.
Our research paper cheat sheet covered some valuable hacks to use when writing a research paper. This guide is essentially no different, only that we are focusing on writing a nursing research paper this time.
Research is a nursing skill that helps you advance your knowledge, explore concepts, and improve your nurse practice. There are many reasons why nurses research : information literacy, evidence-based practice, and teaching information literacy. Besides, nursing research also influences current and future professional nursing practice.
In this sense, you will most likely write a research paper as you undertake your BSN, ADN, MSN, or DNP studies. Therefore, it is important that you know how to start and complete a nursing research paper that scores you an A-plus grade and leaves you knowledgeable.
That is pretty much what this comprehensive guide is about; we extend our guide to provide over 200 nursing research paper topics ( in the next post to be posted later ) that can inspire you or ones you can actually write about.
What is a nursing research paper?
A nursing research paper is a thesis-driven academic paper that is written on a specific nursing topic, either of the student�s choice or one assigned from class. Nursing students write nursing research papers by providing evidence supporting a specific topic.
Nurses undertaking their clinical practice, nursing education, evaluation, or nursing methodology can also write a nursing research paper. The process follows systematic research to explore given facts, apply nursing theories, and draw conclusions.
In terms of length, nursing research papers can be anything from 5 pages onwards.
Format and structure of a research paper
Here is a breakdown of how a nursing research paper should look like.
- Most nursing research papers are formatted in APA or Harvard formats being that these are scientific pieces.
- The title page is the most crucial part of your paper as it helps your professor judge the rest of the paper at a glance. If not done well, you might lose marks.
- Also known as the cover page, the title page for your nursing research paper should bear the title of your research paper, your names, course code and name, university names, names of your professor, and date of submission. See our research paper title page examples to inspire how you present this vital section of your research paper.
- Your abstract should summarize the nursing research paper. It is equally important as your title page because it gives the reader a quick overview of your research paper.
- Abstracts are about 200-250 words long and should be short and focused. If your research paper has sections, you can give a snapshot of each section for more straightforward navigation.
- Avoid using acronyms and citations in your abstract.
- Follow the APA or Harvard abstract guidelines when writing one.
- It is not part of the word count unless the Rubric specifies that it is.
- It should entail the purpose statement, contents of the paper, results, conclusions, and recommendations.
Introduction
- As usual, the introduction is the first part of your nursing research paper.
- It should take 10% of the word count.
- Include an excellent hook for your research paper topic.
- Have background information on the subject
- Present the nursing issue that your research paper is addressing
- Let the readers know the central aim or thesis of your research paper
- Carefully outline the scope of your paper and state its purpose as well. If you are writing a PICO research paper, present the PICOT question at this point.
Literature Review
- It is also yet another critical section where you explore nursing scholars' literature that addresses the thesis statement or your topic.
- Your literature review should critically explore other scholarly sources about nursing theory, theoretical frameworks, scientific theories, concepts, words, etc.
- Here is where you explore how others cover the topic. You should develop the paragraphs well, cite the ideas, and critically approach this section. For instance, if you are writing a research paper on obesity management, you can weave in the Theory of Planned Behavior as part of your management plan. If this is so, you explore the TPB and its use to formulate obesity interventions in another research.
- This section should show excellent research, organization, and writing skills.
Research Methodology
- You should report the methods you used to obtain the data. For example, you could use either qualitative, quantitative, or mixed-methods research approaches.
- Qualitative research in nursing includes ethnography, historical research, phenomenology, symbiotic interactionism, and grounded theory.
- Quantitative nursing research can be descriptive research, quasi-experimental research, or correlational research. As the name suggests, you will be crunching statistics and numbers on this one.
- If you use secondary sources such as literature reviews, systematic reviews, or meta-analyses, you should state the same in this section. If this is the case, you must have a criterion for exclusion and inclusion.
- If it is a statistical paper, include all the analyses and explain how they helped test hypotheses. If you used R or SPSS for data analysis, explain how you did it, including the variables of interest.
- You should also report on the sampling techniques you used.
Results and Discussion
- Here is where you present your findings
- Avoid making definitive statements
- The results should suggest that something is either true or not true, even if you are testing hypotheses.
- The discussion of your results should also ensue. When discussing the findings, use the concepts, facts, and information from your literature review. Be sure to discuss any limitations and delimitations.
- You are allowed to present graphs, tables, or concept maps in this section.
Conclusions and Recommendations
- Provide a recap of the research problem, methodology, and findings.
- Restate the thesis, not as is in the introduction.
- It should be 10% of the total word count
- Relate the findings to the literature review
- Explore future suggestions for researchers
- Format your references in the A-Z format, alphabetically.
- Ensure that the reference list adheres to APA or Harvard format, whichever the prompt or Rubric requires.
- Countercheck that every reference in the list is scholarly and has been used in your paper.
- Include the links, where necessary.
Tips for Writing a Nursing School Research Paper
Here are some valuable tips and tricks to use when writing a nursing research paper. In this cheat sheet for a nursing research paper, you�ll learn about the steps you need to take to ace your paper. It is the blueprint that our best writers use when writing nearly every research paper.
1. Read the research paper prompt and Rubric
It might sound obvious, but it is imperative to understand the basis upon which you are to write the paper from the point of view of an external marker, your professor, or your instructor/teacher before you commence to write the paper.
Skipping this step, which happens often, amounts to starting to climb a mountain without the right gear at hand. As a result, you will end up missing significant points or making minor omissions that can lower your grade.
Spending time to go over the instructions will help you:
- Understand the topic you are to write about. Even if it is a case study research paper, you will know what aspects of the case study to write about
- Learn how to structure your paper � you�ll be able to write an outline for your research paper
- Understand the deadline so that you can plan the entire process
- Recognize and read other materials attached to the instructions that are relevant to completing the paper
- Choose the right theoretical or conceptual constructs to use in the paper
- Help you limit the scope of the paper because you know the word count or the pages required
- See whether you are to use the provided sources, or you can as well use personal research
- Understand the ages of the scholarly sources allowed
If you realize that you do not understand the instructions, ask for clarification before selecting a topic or making much progress.
2. Select a nursing research topic you are confident with
One aspect that most nursing students ignore is choosing a topic that interests them or one they are satisfied with. Consequently, they struggle with developing a topic they chose for the sake of it.
To do it differently, if you are allowed to choose the topic, choose a topic on something you are interested in. For instance, if you are inclined towards geriatrics, choose topics such as fall or management of the aging population. Other potential topics include patient safety, nurse education, nurse privileges, nursing State laws and regulations, ethics, mental health treatment, healthcare informatics, and changes in healthcare.
As this is an advanced paper with a long-form structure, ensure that your nursing topic has available data or has been discussed in scholarly journals.
3. Plan your research paper
Nursing school research papers can either be analytical, argumentative, or expository. They are always written in the American Psychological Association (APA) format. To properly ace a nursing assignment, you should demonstrate wonderful mastery of knowledge, research capabilities, persuasive skills, and organization skills. You can only do so through adequate planning.
After receiving the assignment through the canvas, email, or whatever platform your institution uses, take time to familiarize yourself with the research paper instructions. Then, after knowing the topic and the required word count, spend time planning the paper. In most cases, this is where you draft the structure of your paper to determine the major sections and how to approach the issue.
4. Begin researching and writing early
With the research paper plan, do not wait until the last minute to write a nursing research paper; you will only increase your chances of failing. To succeed in writing a research paper on any topic, commence your research process early.
Skim through the scholarly nursing databases, find reliable sources, and sieve the information as necessary. As you do your research, you would have already or somehow, along the way, develop your thesis statement. You can then select the potential scholarly sources to use. Do not fear seeking information from Wikipedia or Gray search on Google. These sources help you build knowledge and understand concepts better, only that you are not to cite some of them while writing. The general sources allow you to familiarize yourself with your topic, find keywords that you can use in your research, and understand large amounts of information. However, the sources you use in your paper should be relevant, credible, and reliable.
5. Only use scholarly databases for your research
When writing a nursing research paper, it is important to stick to peer-reviewed journals published in the last 5 years for recency, relevance, and accuracy. In addition, write the research paper with a critical rather than descriptive approach.
You can use scholarly databases such as:
- Cochrane Library
- CINAHL Plus with Full Text
- HAPI: Health and Psychological Instruments
- Medline either via Ovid or PubMed
- BMC nursing
- Google Scholar
- Sage Research Methods
- Web of Science
Where can Nursing Students find help when writing a research paper?
6. Organize your research
After selecting the potential sources, organize them in a folder and using citation management tools. Next, arrange the bibliography of your research paper with the information from step #1. The bibliography should meet the general paper requirements. You can also bookmark your resources on your web browser. Better yet, the citation management tools or the digital bibliography help you link the resources you chose. With the research organized, it is now time to begin working on your paper early enough to allow you time to read, understand, critique, and present ideas. First, however, you should write a nursing research paper thesis statement, which you might have formed while researching.
The outline should be a roadmap while writing your paper. It will aid you in presenting major points and sections and organizing the flow of your paper. If possible, have a schedule to complete your paper using the Pomodoro technique, where you finish sections and rest, then resume to complete other sections.
7. Manage your Citations using tools
Manage your citations using citation management tools such as
- Legacy RefWorks
These tools can help you organize your database of citations that relate to your research. In addition, you can get the citation style right as they have various citation styles such as AMA, APA, ASA, or Harvard formats.
You can generate bibliographies and paste them into your research paper once you are done. Doing so can help you avoid deliberate plagiarism, which often happens when you write first then cite later. With the latter, you can easily misplace a citation. Besides, citing as you write helps you have a good flow of ideas and critically approach and present facts in your paper.
8. Have a well-thought-out thesis statement
Now that you have the research ready, knowing the scope, chosen a topic, and organized your research, it is high time you have a tentative central idea listed. Even when you are not arguing for or against anything, your paper must have a thesis or main idea.
We have always insisted on the value of a powerful thesis statement. It is not different when writing a nursing research paper. Let your thesis statement set a clear purpose for your paper. It should as well be definitive. Make sure that your research is thesis- and not source-driven.
9. Create a nursing research paper outline
Like you did with the bibliography, you create an outline as per the instructions of your assignment. Sometimes, you can be asked to turn in the outline first as part of the assignment. If this is the case, outline the example, guidelines, or requirements provided by the professor. However, if you are not required to turn in an outline, you make it to plan your paper well. It helps you build your research paper better.
Here, you should structure your paper but think critically about the scope of the paper. First, organize the paper into sections as we provided in the early stages of this guide.
Related Read: Psychology research paper topics for students.
10. Write the research paper
Finally, you actually need to write the paper. After taking some breaks, it is now time to start writing the paper. With an outline, you can begin it from top to bottom or choose sections randomly. When you start early, you might think you started sooner. Nevertheless, it helps you create a clear, strong, and interesting nursing research paper.
Avoid being a perfectionist as you write; make it straightforward. The time will come when you can perfect your nursing research paper later.
At this point, do not even bother about perfect grammar, punctuation, or titles. However, before writing, skim through your research but avoid writing directly from your research. Instead, read the sources, internalize, write in your own words (paraphrase), summarize, or quote.
As you write the paper, include the relevant citations to the quotes, paraphrased parts, or ideas from other authors. Working with your ideas helps in avoiding plagiarism, which citing does too. The latter gives you a scholarly voice.
Always credit other people�s ideas and words. When quoting word to word, use quotation marks and provide the source. But you should avoid using too many quotes in your paper. When you paraphrase, give credit as well through in-text citations. For common facts, there is no need to mention where the idea came from.
11.� Proofread, edit, and submit your nursing paper on time
Now that your paper is written, you need first to pat yourself in the back. You have done exemplary work, but you are not out of the woods yet. You need to ensure that your research paper meets the strict requirements for nursing research papers. You must always edit your paper before turning it in.
Begin editing for content by looking at the structure, organization, length, and wording. Then, go ahead and look at the thesis statement and how you have developed it in the paper. Does it need to be changed? If yes, tweak the thesis in your introduction and let your conclusion reflect the same. To ensure everything is correct, use our nursing research paper checklist.
Equally, you can hire a nursing research paper editor to assess the instructions, requirements, and paper you�ve written. If there are areas to be changed, the editor will check and change them. They can also proofread the entire paper. When you have feedback from your professor and need someone to integrate the changes, our language and nursing experts from Gradecrest can always help you.
Checklist: Writing a nursing research paper
A good nursing research paper demonstrates knowledge of your topic, advanced organization, and proper formatting. At the same time, it should follow the style requirements. Once you have completed the paper, use the following checklist to evaluate whether your nursing paper should be submitted or revised further.
- I have followed the instructions as outlined in the assignment prompt and Rubric.
- The paper has the right title page.
- The introduction presents the topic, background information, and other relevant information in an engaging way.
- The introduction has a focused, clear, and concise thesis statement and problem statement.
- The introduction outlines the nursing research issue or problem the research paper addresses.
- The paper has a logical flow from start to end.
- The paper has organized paragraphs and sections.
- Every title is formatted as per the formatting style requirements.
- Each paragraph has a focused central idea with a clear topic and conclusion sentence.
- Each paragraph builds on the thesis statement and is relevant to the nursing issue under investigation.
- The paper has transitions that clarify the connections between paragraphs, sentences, and sections.
- The literature review section outlines the theoretical and conceptual constructs.
- The literature review uses data and information from peer-reviewed scholarly nursing journals published within the last five years.
- The methodology section outlines the sample, sampling, methods of data collection and analysis, and rationale.
- The discussion ties the findings to the literature review and is critically written.
- The recommendations stand out.
- The conclusion is concise and answers the research question or shows how the thesis is supported.
- The conclusion does not introduce new points or ideas.
- The paper has an alphabetical reference list, and each is included in the in-text citations.
- The paper is devoid of grammar, syntax, and punctuation errors.
- The paper addresses the feedback from my professor/teacher.
- The paper follows the formatting guidelines.
If your research paper meets all the listings in this checklist, you are free to complete the entire process by submitting the paper in the appropriate format.
Are you stuck with a nursing research paper? Get help from us!
Talk to us if you need help with writing your nursing research paper. We are a custom nursing paper writing service with nursing writers who are experts in various nursing fields. Our writers have worked with clients pursuing ADN, BSN, MSN, and DNP. We equally work with professional nurses pursuing their personal writing projects.
We have a team that has a wealth of knowledge in nursing. You can ask us any nursing questions and get nursing answers for reflective nursing essays, healthcare and nursing essays, term papers, research papers, dissertations, capstone projects, and any other nursing papers � we are the best in the industry/market.
All work is written from scratch, with no plagiarism guaranteed. We also use safe payment processing platforms and write papers that cannot be traced � no one will know you sought help from us thanks to our confidentiality and privacy guarantee.
When you use our papers to formulate your own version, you will write a paper that will forever be your best. Contact us today to hire a nursing research paper writer.
Gradecrest is a professional writing service that provides original model papers. We offer personalized services along with research materials for assistance purposes only. All the materials from our website should be used with proper references. See our Terms of Use Page for proper details.
How to Write a Nursing Essay: Decoding the Essential Steps
A nursing essay serves as a scholarly document focusing on healthcare topics, aiming to showcase your expertise during the nursing program application process. As a nurse practitioner, mastering the art of essay writing becomes crucial for nursing career advancement and highlighting important subjects or unique experiences. While time constraints may hinder your ability to produce a high-quality essay, enlisting the assistance of a professional paper writer can ensure the delivery of a remarkable piece that propels your professional growth.
Distinguished by its intellectual depth, an essay on nursing caters to an educated audience, setting it apart from typical essays written in high school or other academic contexts. Aspiring nurses and healthcare professionals often encounter the challenge of effectively conveying their expertise and passion for the field through written assignments. However, by following the proven guidelines on how to write a nursing essay outlined in this article, you will gain valuable insights and practical tips to overcome this hurdle.
Nursing Essay: Unveiling the Definition and Exploring its Significance
A nursing essay, also known as an essay on nursing profession, is a written academic piece that encompasses the analysis, exploration, and evaluation of nursing-related topics. It serves as a platform for nursing students and professionals to showcase their understanding, application, and synthesis of concepts, theories, and practical experiences within the healthcare field.
The nursing essay definition encompasses a comprehensive examination of key aspects of nursing practice, including patient care, healthcare policies, research findings, ethical considerations, and professional development. These essays provide an opportunity to delve into specific areas of interest, such as nursing ethics, evidence-based practice, or healthcare management.
Writing this type of essay serves multiple purposes. It enhances critical thinking skills, promotes the integration of theoretical knowledge into practical contexts, and improves written communication abilities. Additionally, they contribute to professional growth by encouraging self-reflection, evidence-based reasoning, and the development of a professional nursing identity.
When faced with the task of writing a nursing essay, students often seek assistance, thinking, 'Who can write my essay ?'. Well, wonder no more! Our professional writing services can provide the necessary support and expertise to craft a well-structured and compelling essay that meets academic standards.
How to Start a Nursing Essay: Essential Steps to Begin With
To avoid the common pitfall of rushing into writing, it is crucial to take a moment to assess the essay requirements. Many students overlook this step, but by pausing to carefully read and understand the instructions, you can set yourself up for success. Pay close attention to whether a specific topic is provided or if you have the freedom to choose one. If the latter is the case, consider yourself fortunate, as you now have the advantage of selecting a topic that aligns with your interests and strengths. For a more detailed explanation, let's demystify these steps below.
- Comprehend the Task
The initial step crucial for success is gaining a clear understanding of the essay requirements. The question itself serves as a valuable guide, providing insights into the specific subjects to investigate and the approach to assess a topic. It is essential to pay attention to important details such as word count, expectations regarding source quality, and the designated citation style, typically MLA format, for an essay on nursing profession.
These instructions will significantly influence the overall nursing essay structure, and any oversight can have adverse consequences. Therefore, it is imperative to meticulously review the assignment guidelines to ensure adherence and avoid potential mistakes that may jeopardize your essay's quality and academic performance.
- Navigate the Topic Selection Process
When embarking on your piece, take time to consider multiple themes and conduct preliminary research to assess the availability of relevant information. While selecting a topic, it is essential to keep both your intended audience and your personal interests in mind. Aim for a topic that not only captivates your readers but also resonates with your own passion and curiosity.
Narrow down your initial selection to two or three promising themes, allowing for further exploration. Delve deeper into each potential topic, conducting thorough research to gather a comprehensive understanding of the available literature, key arguments, and potential avenues for exploration. This deeper exploration will aid in making an informed decision.
- Harness the Power of Outlining
Recognizing the value of an outline in structuring your research and writing process is paramount. You have the option to create a personalized outline or utilize a template specifically tailored for nursing essays.
Whether you choose to follow a traditional format or utilize a specialized nursing essay outline, the key is to establish a logical framework that aligns with your research findings and supports a coherent and cohesive essay structure. Embracing the power of outlining empowers you to efficiently organize your thoughts, highlight crucial material, and maintain a focused and well-structured paper.
- Rely on Reliable Sources
When composing your essay, it is crucial to rely solely on trustworthy and reputable sources. Academic and scientific articles, along with medical periodicals, serve as common and reliable sources for gathering information. These sources provide evidence-based insights, research findings, and expert perspectives that contribute to the credibility and authority of your essay.
To ensure access to reliable sources, consider leveraging the expertise of professionals, such as those at Grade Miners, who possess in-depth knowledge of trusted resources within the nursing field. Their familiarity with reputable sources, combined with the utilization of cutting-edge essay writing apps , can significantly enhance the quality and substance of your nursing essay.
By prioritizing trusted sources and diligently citing your references, you establish a solid foundation of credibility, validity, and academic rigor within your personal essay.
How to Write a Nursing Essay: A Detailed Breakdown
Writing a nursing essay becomes more manageable when you grasp the overarching structure of the essay. While maintaining a formal and academic tone, this type of essay loosely adheres to the familiar five-paragraph framework commonly found in essay writing. It begins with an introduction, followed by three body paragraphs, and concludes with a final paragraph.
- Craft an Engaging Introduction for Your Nursing Essay
When wondering how to start an essay , the opening paragraph serves as a gateway to captivate your reader's attention. It is where you elucidate the significance of your paper, provide essential background information, and set the stage for what lies ahead. Interestingly, crafting the introductory paragraph often becomes easier once the body paragraphs have been written, as it allows for a better understanding of the necessary background material.
Now, it is time to draft your thesis statement—an indispensable component of your nursing introduction essay. A thesis statement is a succinct one-sentence summary that encapsulates the essence of your entire document. It acts as a guiding light, steering the course of your work. Hence, investing time and effort into developing an exceptional thesis statement is paramount!
- Structure Body Paragraphs in Your Nursing Essay
When it comes to structuring your essay, the number of body paragraphs can vary depending on the word count and the depth of your analysis. Generally, you may have anywhere from 1 to 5 body paragraphs to effectively convey your ideas. However, it is crucial to maintain clarity and coherence throughout your essay.
To achieve this, each body paragraph should focus on discussing only one subtopic related to the primary theme. By adopting this approach, you ensure that your essay remains easily understandable and flows smoothly for the reader. This strategic organization allows for a systematic exploration of your key points and enables you to present your arguments in a clear and concise manner.
While crafting your nursing essay, you can consider leveraging the expertise of our admission essay writing service .
- Finalize Your Nursing Essay
When writing a nursing essay, the conclusion serves as the ultimate opportunity to leave a lasting impression on your reader. It plays a crucial role in summarizing the key arguments presented in the body paragraphs and restating the thesis statement to reinforce their interconnectedness. However, a compelling conclusion goes beyond mere repetition.
In addition to restating the main points, you can enhance your conclusion by offering avenues for further investigation, posing thought-provoking questions, or emphasizing the significance of your chosen topic or research findings. By doing so, you engage your reader on a deeper level and inspire them to ponder the broader implications of your work.
Consider highlighting the potential for future research directions, suggesting areas for exploration, or encouraging readers to delve deeper into related aspects. Alternatively, you can leave them with personal examples or a captivating question that encourages critical thinking or reflects on the broader implications of your essay's subject matter.
- Refine Your Final Draft
Once you have completed writing a nursing essay, it is crucial to embrace the editing process. Don't hesitate to make revisions, add new material, or remove unnecessary information. As you engage with your essay, you may discover better ways to communicate your findings or establish new connections that strengthen your argument.
Take the time to carefully review and revise your essay until you are satisfied with the final document. Pay attention to formatting flaws, spelling errors, punctuation mistakes, and any other grammatical issues that could undermine the overall quality of your work. A well-polished essay demonstrates your attention to detail and enhances the professionalism of your writing.
And If you find yourself struggling with the editing process or require additional assistance, use our reputable services to buy essay online .
Need Some Help?
Our essay writers are well versed in various categories and can put together an essay you need! With our reliable service, you can quickly get fast academic help, no matter the subject! Our professional essay writers allow you to make as many edits are you wish until your essay is perfect - this way we stand out from competition regarding quality and reliability.
Selecting a Topic for Your Nursing Essay
When it comes to selecting essay topics for nursing students, including how to write a cause and effect essay , the considerations may vary depending on your program and specialty. If you're writing a nursing school application essay, you can also consider including your personal story. Here are some key factors to keep in mind when brainstorming potential topics.
- Select a topic that genuinely interests you, as this will fuel your passion and commitment throughout the writing process.
- Opt for a topic that you believe will captivate and engage the reader, ensuring that it holds relevance and significance in the field of nursing.
- Ensure that your chosen topic has ample reputable sources available for reference, enabling you to support your arguments with evidence-based information.
- Strike a balance between the scope of your topic. Avoid making it overly broad, which could lead to a lack of focus, or overly narrow, which may limit your research and discussion.
- Don't settle for the first topic that comes to mind. Dedicate time to brainstorming and conducting preliminary research to explore various possibilities and find a topic that aligns with your interests and meets the requirements of your essay.
Exploring Nursing Essay Topics
When searching for a topic for your nursing essay, one effective approach is to review essay topic lists. These lists can serve as a valuable resource to either select a topic directly or ignite your creativity to develop your own unique idea. You can also find some inspiration for your topic ideas below:
- The Impact of Evidence-Based Practice in Nursing
- Ethical Dilemmas in Nursing: Balancing Patient Autonomy and Best Interest
- The Role of Cultural Competence in Providing Culturally Sensitive Nursing Care
- Addressing Burnout and Enhancing Resilience Among Nurses
- Exploring the Integration of Technology in Nursing Practice
- The Importance of Effective Communication in Nursing
- Promoting Patient Safety: Strategies for Preventing Medical Errors
- Nursing Leadership: Key Traits and Skills for Success
- The Role of Nurses in Healthcare Policy Development and Advocacy
- Palliative Care: Enhancing Quality of Life for Patients with Serious Illnesses
Nursing Essay Examples
Another great way of getting inspiration is by reading a few nursing essay examples. Reading examples can show you the types of issues people write about and give you a sense of how to structure your own essay. Nursing essay examples can also be a good way of finding sources, but make sure that you do not copy and paste sections from an essay example because this would be considered plagiarizing.
Refining Your Drafts
The process of developing your nursing profession essay follows a pyramid scheme. Start with a rough draft by building your paper with every single piece of data you have access too. Then, as you progress forward, narrow it down to the most crucial to your topic information.
Advocating for patients’ need for basic care and comfort is pivotal in nursing practice. Healthcare professionals should ensure that patients are not harmed in the healthcare setting as it is supposed to provide healing and comfort. To achieve it, nurses should ensure that nursing care is holistic and multidimensionally. Comfort is defined by patients’ quality of life and experiences. In the healthcare setting, unwarranted variability in care should be reduced because comfort is a vital aspect of patient-centered care (Wensley et al., 2020).
In Nursing, communication is crucial in that it facilitates the improvement of outcomes, fosters relationships, and helps in facilitating effective teamwork. When carrying out nursing activities, information is needed from the patient for the nurses to offer care that will lead to achieving the best outcomes. There is some information that patients might not be ready to release unless a nurse compels them to do so, such compelling exercise cannot only be achieved through good communication and trust between the two parties (Kourkouta, & Papathanasiou, 2014).
To wrap up, this article serves as a comprehensive guide for writing a nursing essay. From understanding the assignment to crafting a strong thesis statement, organizing the content, and revising for clarity and formatting, we offered valuable insights and practical tips for success. By following these guidelines, you can confidently navigate the process and produce impactful nursing essays.
Ready to Excel in Your Nursing School Essay?
Order now and experience the expertise of our professional writers!
Related Articles
Purdue Online Writing Lab Purdue OWL® College of Liberal Arts
Writing as a Professional Nurse
Welcome to the Purdue OWL
This page is brought to you by the OWL at Purdue University. When printing this page, you must include the entire legal notice.
Copyright ©1995-2018 by The Writing Lab & The OWL at Purdue and Purdue University. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, reproduced, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without permission. Use of this site constitutes acceptance of our terms and conditions of fair use.
These resources will help you write on the job and in the classes you will take to become a nurse.
"Writing as a Professional Nurse" provides three general, though important, rules working nurses should keep in mind while writing reports and charts and while communicating with doctors and patients.
"Writing in the Field" discusses three examples of writing tasks nurses perform: flowcharts, careplans, and narratives.
"List of Nursing Resources" provides links to Purdue OWL resources that both nurses and nursing students might find helpful while writing for work or school. Each link provides a brief description of the resource and how and why it will help nurses and students with their writing tasks.
The field of nursing requires a great deal of swift, accurate writing. You will need to fill out reports and charts correctly and completely and record your interactions with doctors and patients fairly. In addition, you must always be prepared to defend the information you record. The material below is intended to help you get used to this type of writing both in school and in the field of nursing.
Three General Rules
This may seem to go without saying, but you should remember that accuracy is important even beyond the obvious areas like medication administration and treatment procedure. Accurately reporting sequences of events, doctor’s orders, and patient concerns will protect you from scrutiny. Example : “Did dressing change.” If this is the entire record of you performing a dressing change for a patient, then exactly what you did is up to interpretation. A more precise version would be:
“Performed dressing change, cleaned wound with NS and gauze, applied calcium alginate, covered with ABD, secured with silk tape. Patient tolerated well.” This revision provides a clear picture of every step of the procedure and explains use of all materials. (Note: even further explanation may be necessary to describe wound status and any changes or doctor notifications.)
Be Objective
Always try to remove personal emotions and opinions from the writing you do. Place yourself in a dispassionate mindset and record information, not feelings, hunches, or viewpoints.
Example : “Patient acting crazy.” This statement relies on the nurse’s subjective opinion of the patient’s mental state. A better version would be: “Patient pacing back and forth, breathing fast, clenching fists, yelling ‘Don’t touch me!’ repeatedly.”
This provides a clear picture of what actually happened during the incident, allowing the reader to draw his or her own conclusions.
Remember Your Critical Audience
Litigation and auditing are a fact of life in the medical field, and chances are good that readers of your writing will be actively looking for mistakes or inconsistencies. Scrupulous charting and reporting is the best way to satisfy such readers. Examples : “Did dressing change.” “Patient acting crazy.” Both of the examples in the above points could be used by a critical audience to have cause for correction or could be used negatively against you in court. The phrase “Did dressing change” details no necessity for specific materials, leaves room for doubt as to compliance with doctor-ordered treatments, and can provide space for accusations from expert witnesses. Writing “Patient acting crazy,” without quantifying statements and description of your actions, can be grounds for charges of negligence. Either one of these cases, in an extreme scenario, could be grounds for you to lose your license.
- Log in ▼
- Our Guarantees
- Our Services
- How it Works
How to Write a Nursing Paper Complete Guide
Whether at the end or in the middle of a nursing course, students will be required to write a nursing paper and broaden their practical skills by diving into several research sources and conducting their research. Writing a nursing term paper is not a cakewalk since it entails supporting the thesis with arguments, statistics, proper referencing, etc. However, with a complete guide on how to write a nursing paper. You are good to go.
What is a nursing research paper?
A nursing paper is a thesis-driven academic paper written on a specific topic given by the instructor, or sometimes it can be a student’s choice. As a nursing student, you must write nursing papers by providing supporting evidence on a given topic.
Nurses doing their practicum, doing their nursing courses, nursing methodology, or evaluation will sometimes be required to write a nursing paper. Writing a nursing paper includes systematic research to showcase given statistics, look into nursing theories and come up with conclusions. A nursing paper can vary from 5 pages onwards.
How to write outstanding Nursing Papers
The essence of nursing in the healthcare field is vital that research is required since it inherently betters the nursing field and improves healthcare services. Here is a step-by-step guide and no steps skipped process on how to write a nursing research paper .
Choosing a Topic for the Nursing Paper
The first step toward writing an outstanding term paper is choosing a nursing paper topic. The instructor will provide a nursing student with several topics to select from in most cases. If you don’t like or have no interest in the provided topics, you can opt for your nursing paper topic. It should be related to the specific nursing topic in your particular nursing area of specialization.
Most importantly, you should find a nursing paper topic that you deem interesting or one you are always deeply concerned about. Explore the topic you would like to write about and weigh if the theoretical knowledge is available and you have the necessary skills to write a nursing paper.
Topic Relevancy Matters
The relevancy of your topic to the specific course is just as crucial as your interest in the desired topic. You should select a topic that has been analyzed severally in the past, and that way, it will be easier to find relevant, credible, and up-to-date references. You should introduce some freshness into the area in the same line as your readers should be 100% original and not just copy-pasted from other publications. To master this, you should research some reputable sources and develop distinct viewpoints and perspectives on the point.
Always be mindful of the number of sources available, and they must be credible and relevant. The nursing paper shouldn’t be too broad and make it challenging for you to cover all the crucial points or structure the paper well. Conversely, if the nursing paper topic is too narrow, you will find it challenging to expound on the research later. So to be on the safer side, you should first consider the topic’s relevance and look for contemporary issues surrounding the topic.
Deriving from the tips listed above. Some of the best examples of nursing paper topics
- The issue of racism inside the healthcare system.
- Disorders of sleep in women
- Innovations in EBP Nursing
- Why Quantitative Studies Are Never Sufficient
- Professional nursing functions
- Guidelines for the fundamental treatment of catastrophe victims
- Changes and limitations of the sensory system in older adults: nursing care approaches
- Instruction for EBP
- Evaluate the effectiveness of meditative therapy for individuals with cognitive development impairment
- Misunderstandings Regarding Evidence-Based Practices Among Nurses
- EBP Ability
- Critical care nursing administration
- Examining the effects of telephone care during postnatal therapy
- Using machine learning to detect dementia in older adults: an evaluation of its effectiveness and precision
- Works of nursing theorists
- Bias towards women in the nursing profession
- Establishing a medical practice
- Between occupation and service to others
- Recommendations Based on Evidence in Primary Care
- Quantitative Studies and Sampling
- Protocol standard for the treatment of adult headaches.
- Nursing professionals
- Evaluation Methodologies in Evidence-Based Nursing Practice
- Guidelines for basic gynecological education
- The parenting experience of women: attachment and mother-child bonding
- Healthcare contract constraints
- Morality and homelessness treatment
- EBP and Administration
- History of eating disorder treatment and current treatment analysis
- Pathogenesis, immunology, and therapy of HHV6
- Difficulties for New Nurses Regarding EBP
- Social Work and the Health Promotion Specialist’s Function
- The evolution of nursing in the 20th and 21st centuries.
- Qualitative, Quantitative, or Mixed: Nursing’s Preferred Research Method
Look for reliable sources for Nursing essay writing
After selecting the nursing paper, it is time to look for relevant, credible, and up-to-date sources to help you fully explore different perspectives on your topic. you can use the library or the internet to find these sources. ensure you do your due diligence and get information from reliable and credible websites with online sources., today there are many irrelevant and unreliable websites, and you don’t want to risk your academic future. to avoid any self-doubt, use academic journals and specialized directories. look for:.
- academic periodicals specializing in Nursing, Healthcare, Medicine, and other sub-fields; websites ending in.gov or.edu since they are pertinent and can be used for academic purposes;
- general and specialized databases as well as digital libraries.
There are numerous websites and databases dedicated to nursing and medical-related issues. The most popular among them include:
- CINAHL Plus – an online database including useful nursing and related health resources;
- Nursing Reference Center Plus Is a database containing credible, evidence-based information about nursing practice;
- Cochrane Library — an online library containing medical evidence that can be used to inform clinical treatment decisions;
- PubMed is an online service that is part of the National Library of Medicine; it includes vital citations and more books and databases connected to nursing and other life sciences.
- MEDLINE is a bibliographic database including scholarly publications in several medical disciplines, such as veterinary healthcare administration and nursing.
Planning and Preparing for nursing papers
After you have selected the preferred nursing paper topic and found a relevant, credible nursing paper, you already have a rough idea of what your nursing paper is going to look like. But you might not know where to start or go. To make everything more manageable, you need to have a prewriting practice that will help you articulate the main points of your nursing paper and come up with new ideas for your nursing paper to write an outstanding nursing paper.
Brainstorming
The pre-writing practice should be centered around the information you have garnered on the given topic and other related issues. That is why it is crucial to initiate the writing process and gain the knowledge pertinent to the nursing paper topic before you begin writing the key points. Next, you should practice brainstorming techniques. Brainstorming includes jotting down all the key points pertinent to the topic in your mind.
Freewriting
Another crucial tip is to practice a strategy called freewriting. Freewriting is all bout jotting down in the form of sentence lists. This will help you expound on the initial ideas and create new viewpoints on which you might further explore the idea.
Mind-Mapping
You can also use “mind-mapping”. You should create a visual presentation of your nursing paper. The mind mapping strategy will help you visualize your nursing pape ideas. You have to select the more leading ideas. Then on the key points, list down the supporting point you will use to support the main ideas.
Now that you have the ideas and the key points listed on the selected topic, it is time to create an outline of your nursing paper. An outline will help you structure all the parts of your paper and make it sound logical and professional. The nursing paper outline is centered around your topic, and the thesis statement also includes a list of the key points you intend to discuss in your nursing paper. You should also review the key points further and make sure it touches all the crucial points.
Nursing Papers outline
If you intend to obtain the highest grades on your nursing paper, you must follow a given format or structure. Go through your instructor’s instructions and stick to the provided instructions. In most cases, a nurse’s paper should be written according to the American Psychological Association (APA). In the APA format, it defines structure.
The APA format typically contains the title page. The abstract, main body, and reference list. Your nursing paper should be in Time New Roman and font 12. The in-text citations must have the author-date format. In these cases, you can include the page number if you insert the citation directly from a publication or an online source.
As mentioned earlier, the structure of your nursing paper should help you develop an outline. If your instructor provides some additional instructions, be sure to follow them, a typical Structure of Nursing Papers in APA contains the following.
The title page must have the running head, the name of the nursing paper, the student’s name, and the affiliated school or college.
Your abstract should be on a separate page. The title should be “abstract” and unsorted in the center. The main role of the abstract should contain the key points of your nursing paper and highlight the value you are adding to the existing knowledge and your interpretations of the findings.
The main body of the nursing paper has the introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusions. The primary function of the introductory paragraph is to provide a background of the nursing paper and explain the problem your paper aims to solve. Your introduction must have a thesis statement which is usually the last part of the introduction that sums up the main argument of the nursing paper.
Next, the main body paragraphs should detail the arguments mentioned in the introduction and the abstract. Make sure to support your arguments with evidence, statistics, facts, and even real-life examples, not forgetting your evaluation of the issue.
In your conclusion, summarize all the disused points in the preceding paragraphs and again highlight the thesis statement. Remember, you should not add any new information in the conclusion section.
Reference Page
The reference page should be on a separate page. The title page should be titled References and be structured as per the APA referencing style guide.
Proofreading and edit
After you finish writing a nursing paper, next, you edit and proofread your paper. You will have to check punctuation and grammar issues a these are the most common needs you are likely to make when writing nursing papers. Thanks to technology, it has become easier to check grammar mistakes by using tools such as Grammarly that will help you perfect the grammar used on your nursing paper.
Use tools such as Copyscape and Turnitin to check for plagiarism since you don’t want to be penalized due to plagiarism problems with your paper.
After checking for grammar and punctuation, look for the choice of words in your nursing paper, as academic papers must have an official and academic tone. Avoid contractions and idioms in academic language. You can also solicit help from a friend or an expert to help you detect mistakes in your nursing papers. An extra eye looking into your paper will help you discover your writing weaknesses and work on improving them in due course.
How to Write the Best Introduction
The introduction of a nursing paper is crucial since the introduction will determine id the reader keeps on reading the rest of the nursing paper or not. As they say, first impressions matter a lot. A compelling introductory paragraph allows you to make an excellent first impression. A poorly written introduction confuses and puts off the reader.
To understand how to write a compelling introduction, you have to understand the critical aspects of your introduction. It must contain the following aspects.
- Must be attention-grabbing
- Contain the thesis statement
- Introduce the nursing paper topic
- Highlight the key points of the paper
- Explain the problem your paper aims to solve.
Steps for writing the best introduction for a nursing research paper
1. Introducing the topic
When you begin your nursing paper, you must inform the reader about the topic and what you will discuss. You have to make your nursing paper introduction captivating to the readers interested in reading. You can begin by including a quotation, statistic, or a thought-provoking question.
2. Set the foundation
Each paper has its background setting. For instance, if you are writing a research paper, you need to offer a synopsis of the existing research on the topic and give insight into what your paper brings. You need to look at the problems and the missing gap in the preexisting research and fill them.
If you are writing an argumentative nursing paper , you have to trim it down to the title and offer insight into the topic to provide content. Avoid overloading the introduction with unnecessary details.
3. State the research problem
Your introduction should help convince the reader that your paper will address the research question. Demonstrate how your nursing paper will solve the research problems and address the questions you have not addressed in the existing research.
4. Thesis statement
You need to specify the primary goal of the research. You can use it as a thesis statement or throw in a research question with a paper. Your thesis statement should not be more than two sentences.
Tips for Writing Nursing Papers
These tips will come in handy if you want to navigate the process of writing a nursing paper quickly. In this simple but comprehensive list, you will learn the practical tips that will help you nail your nursing paper. Several nursing paper experts have verified these tips, and you should take them as the gospel.
Select a good nursing topic
Most nursing students disregard the importance of selecting a topic that excites or satisfies them. As a result, they struggle with developing a topic chosen for its reason. If you are free to choose the topic, select a topic that you find interesting. If you are interested in geriatric medicine, select topics such as falls or the management of an aging population.
Other possible topics include safety of patients, nurse training, nurse credentials, nursing state laws and regulations, morality, mental health treatment, healthcare informatics, and healthcare transformations.
As this is an advanced paper with a lengthy format, ensure that your nursing topic is supported by data or has been debated in science publications.
Carefully Read paper instructions
When beginning to write the paper, it is essential to comprehend the basis upon which you are to write it from the perspective of an external marker, your professor, or your instructor/teacher. Neglecting this stage is similar to beginning a mountain climb without the proper equipment. You will lose significant points or make tiny omissions that affect your grade.
Spending time reviewing the instructions will assist you in:
- Determine the ages of the scholarly sources that are permitted.
- Recognize and read other items necessary to complete the document related to the instructions.
- Understand the deadline to plan the entire process
- You will be able to develop an outline for a research paper if you learn how to organize your document.
- Help you restrict the scope of the paper because you are aware of the required number of words or pages.
- Select the appropriate theoretical or conceptual frameworks to apply throughout the paper.
- Evaluate if you are required to use the specified sources or if you can also conduct your research.
Understand the topic you will be writing. Even if it is a research paper on a case study, you will know what components of the case study to discuss.
Before selecting a nursing paper topic or making significant progress, get clarification if you discover you do not understand the directions.
Plan your nursing paper
Nursing papers can be analytical, argumentative, or explanatory. According to the American Psychological Association (APA) style, they are consistently formatted. To complete a nursing project, you must display an exceptional command of knowledge, research skills, persuasion, and organization. This is only possible with sufficient planning.
Take the time to familiarize yourself with the nursing paper guidelines after receiving the project via the internet, email, or your institution’s method. Then, after determining the topic and word count, devote time to planning the paper. In most instances, this is where you will outline the structure of your paper to decide the primary sections and how to approach the topic.
Organize your nursing paper
Following the selection process, but the sources into a folder and use citation management tools to keep track of them. The following step is to organize your research paper’s bibliography using the information from step one. The bibliography must meet all of the guidelines for a standard research paper.
You can also save your favorite websites to your browser’s bookmarks. There are even better options for linking your sources, such as citation management systems or a digital bibliography. To give yourself the best opportunity to read, comprehend, criticize, and present ideas, it is imperative that you begin writing your paper as soon as you have completed your research. In the beginning, you should write a thesis statement for your nursing paper.
The outline should serve as a guide for your paper’s writing process. You can use it to help you organize your paper’s flow and convey important ideas and parts. If you can, use the Pomodoro approach to complete your paper, in which you finish sections and take a break before moving on to the next piece.
Begin researching and writing early
When writing a nursing paper for a nursing program, do not wait until the last minute; this increases your chances of failing. Begin your research as soon as possible to ensure that your paper will be a success.
Find credible sources in the scholarly nursing databases and sift through the data as needed. As you research, you would have already or somehow, along the road, developed your thesis statement. You can then choose from a variety of academic sources. Do not fear seeking information from Gray search on Google or Wikipedia.
You can use these sources to expand your knowledge and better understand topics, but you are not allowed to credit some of them when writing. You can learn a lot about a topic by looking at available sources, finding keywords to use in your research, and getting a sense of the sheer volume of knowledge. However, the sources you utilize in your paper should be relevant, credible, and reliable.
Use Citations tools
Use citation management programs like Zotero, EndNote, Legacy, and RefWorks to keep track of your citations.
Several tools might help you arrange your citation database. As a bonus, you can ensure that the citation style is correct because they offer AMA, APA, ASA, or Harvard formatting options.
With such tools, you can create bibliographies and paste them into your research paper once you’ve finished it. Avoiding intentional plagiarism is easier when you write first and cite later. A citation is much more likely to be lost when using the latter method. You’ll also find that quoting while writing helps keep your thoughts flowing and critically examine your reporting data.
Proofread and edit nursing paper
You should first congratulate yourself on finishing your paper. An excellent job, but you are still in the woods. You must make sure your nursing paper complies with all established standards. It’s always a good idea to edit your work before submitting it.
Look at the structure, organization, length, and wording of the text before beginning nursing paper editing. Look at your thesis and how you’ve developed it in your paper. Is it necessary to adjust it? Make changes to your introduction and conclusion if you think it’s necessary. Using our nursing paper checklist, you can ensure that everything is in order.
You can hire a nursing research paper editor to review your paper’s instructions and requirements. The editor will make any necessary adjustments if necessary. They are also capable of doing a thorough proofreading job. Nursing paper writing experts from Online Nursing Papers can always help you if you need someone to integrate the changes.
The Bottom Line
If you have followed this blog up to this point, you are already an expert on writing nursing papers. You need to choose a suitable nursing paper topic, look for credible and relevant nursing sources, use a nursing paper outline and proofread your paper before submission. These are just some crucial steps that will help you nail your nursing papers.
Why We Are the Best
- 100% non-plagiarized Papers
- Dedicated nursing and healthcare writers
- 24/7 /365 Service Available
- Affordable Prices
- Money-back and Privacy guarantees
- Unlimited Amendments upon request
- Satisfaction guarantee
- Online Nursing Assignment Help
- Nursing Assignment Help
- Nursing Dissertation Writing Services
- Nursing Capstone Project Writing Services
- Best Nursing Essay Writing Company
- Best Online Nursing Assignment Help
- Nursing Term Paper Writing Services
- Nursing Report Writing Services
- Nursing Annotated Bibliography by Professional
- Nursing Essay Assignments
- Nursing Assignment Writing
- Nursing Case Study Writing Services
- Nursing Coursework Writing
- Online Nursing Research Paper writing service
- PICO Question Examples
- Nursing Thesis Writing Services
- Nursing Research Paper Writing Services
- Nursing Presentation Writing
- Terms and Conditions
- Epidemiology assignment help
- Write my nursing dissertation for Me
- Nursing Essay Writing Service
How Can You Create a Well Planned Research Paper Outline
You are staring at the blank document, meaning to start writing your research paper . After months of experiments and procuring results, your PI asked you to write the paper to publish it in a reputed journal. You spoke to your peers and a few seniors and received a few tips on writing a research paper, but you still can’t plan on how to begin!
Writing a research paper is a very common issue among researchers and is often looked upon as a time consuming hurdle. Researchers usually look up to this task as an impending threat, avoiding and procrastinating until they cannot delay it anymore. Seeking advice from internet and seniors they manage to write a paper which goes in for quite a few revisions. Making researchers lose their sense of understanding with respect to their research work and findings. In this article, we would like to discuss how to create a structured research paper outline which will assist a researcher in writing their research paper effectively!
Publication is an important component of research studies in a university for academic promotion and in obtaining funding to support research. However, the primary reason is to provide the data and hypotheses to scientific community to advance the understanding in a specific domain. A scientific paper is a formal record of a research process. It documents research protocols, methods, results, conclusion, and discussion from a research hypothesis .
Table of Contents
What Is a Research Paper Outline?
A research paper outline is a basic format for writing an academic research paper. It follows the IMRAD format (Introduction, Methods, Results, and Discussion). However, this format varies depending on the type of research manuscript. A research paper outline consists of following sections to simplify the paper for readers. These sections help researchers build an effective paper outline.
1. Title Page
The title page provides important information which helps the editors, reviewers, and readers identify the manuscript and the authors at a glance. It also provides an overview of the field of research the research paper belongs to. The title should strike a balance between precise and detailed. Other generic details include author’s given name, affiliation, keywords that will provide indexing, details of the corresponding author etc. are added to the title page.
2. Abstract
Abstract is the most important section of the manuscript and will help the researcher create a detailed research paper outline . To be more precise, an abstract is like an advertisement to the researcher’s work and it influences the editor in deciding whether to submit the manuscript to reviewers or not. Writing an abstract is a challenging task. Researchers can write an exemplary abstract by selecting the content carefully and being concise.
3. Introduction
An introduction is a background statement that provides the context and approach of the research. It describes the problem statement with the assistance of the literature study and elaborates the requirement to update the knowledge gap. It sets the research hypothesis and informs the readers about the big research question.
This section is usually named as “Materials and Methods”, “Experiments” or “Patients and Methods” depending upon the type of journal. This purpose provides complete information on methods used for the research. Researchers should mention clear description of materials and their use in the research work. If the methods used in research are already published, give a brief account and refer to the original publication. However, if the method used is modified from the original method, then researcher should mention the modifications done to the original protocol and validate its accuracy, precision, and repeatability.
It is best to report results as tables and figures wherever possible. Also, avoid duplication of text and ensure that the text summarizes the findings. Report the results with appropriate descriptive statistics. Furthermore, report any unexpected events that could affect the research results, and mention complete account of observations and explanations for missing data (if any).
6. Discussion
The discussion should set the research in context, strengthen its importance and support the research hypothesis. Summarize the main results of the study in one or two paragraphs and show how they logically fit in an overall scheme of studies. Compare the results with other investigations in the field of research and explain the differences.
7. Acknowledgments
Acknowledgements identify and thank the contributors to the study, who are not under the criteria of co-authors. It also includes the recognition of funding agency and universities that award scholarships or fellowships to researchers.
8. Declaration of Competing Interests
Finally, declaring the competing interests is essential to abide by ethical norms of unique research publishing. Competing interests arise when the author has more than one role that may lead to a situation where there is a conflict of interest.
Steps to Write a Research Paper Outline
- Write down all important ideas that occur to you concerning the research paper .
- Answer questions such as – what is the topic of my paper? Why is the topic important? How to formulate the hypothesis? What are the major findings?
- Add context and structure. Group all your ideas into sections – Introduction, Methods, Results, and Discussion/Conclusion.
- Add relevant questions to each section. It is important to note down the questions. This will help you align your thoughts.
- Expand the ideas based on the questions created in the paper outline.
- After creating a detailed outline, discuss it with your mentors and peers.
- Get enough feedback and decide on the journal you will submit to.
- The process of real writing begins.
Benefits of Creating a Research Paper Outline
As discussed, the research paper subheadings create an outline of what different aspects of research needs elaboration. This provides subtopics on which the researchers brainstorm and reach a conclusion to write. A research paper outline organizes the researcher’s thoughts and gives a clear picture of how to formulate the research protocols and results. It not only helps the researcher to understand the flow of information but also provides relation between the ideas.
A research paper outline helps researcher achieve a smooth transition between topics and ensures that no research point is forgotten. Furthermore, it allows the reader to easily navigate through the research paper and provides a better understanding of the research. The paper outline allows the readers to find relevant information and quotes from different part of the paper.
Research Paper Outline Template
A research paper outline template can help you understand the concept of creating a well planned research paper before beginning to write and walk through your journey of research publishing.
1. Research Title
A. Background i. Support with evidence ii. Support with existing literature studies
B. Thesis Statement i. Link literature with hypothesis ii. Support with evidence iii. Explain the knowledge gap and how this research will help build the gap 4. Body
A. Methods i. Mention materials and protocols used in research ii. Support with evidence
B. Results i. Support with tables and figures ii. Mention appropriate descriptive statistics
C. Discussion i. Support the research with context ii. Support the research hypothesis iii. Compare the results with other investigations in field of research
D. Conclusion i. Support the discussion and research investigation ii. Support with literature studies
E. Acknowledgements i. Identify and thank the contributors ii. Include the funding agency, if any
F. Declaration of Competing Interests
5. References
Download the Research Paper Outline Template!
Have you tried writing a research paper outline ? How did it work for you? Did it help you achieve your research paper writing goal? Do let us know about your experience in the comments below.
Downloadable format shared which is great. 🙂
Rate this article Cancel Reply
Your email address will not be published.
Enago Academy's Most Popular
- Old Webinars
- Webinar Mobile App
Role of ChatGPT and Other AI Tools in Academic Publishing
Role of AI tools in academia Ethical considerations Responsible use of AI tools ChatGPT vs…
- Manuscript Preparation
- Publishing Research
The Power of Proofreading: Taking your academic work to the next level
Preparing your scientific work for submission can be a nerve-wracking experience. Be it the high…
- Manuscripts & Grants
- Reporting Research
Research Aims and Objectives: The dynamic duo for successful research
Picture yourself on a road trip without a destination in mind — driving aimlessly, not…
- Infographic
International Conference Presentation Guide: The ultimate do’s and don’ts
Looking to be a shining star and take your research to the next level? International…
Facing Difficulty Writing an Academic Essay? — Here is your one-stop solution!
Academic writing is an important aspect of higher education, as it helps to develop critical…
Experimental Research Design — 6 mistakes you should never make!
Role of an Abstract in Research Paper With Examples
Sign-up to read more
Subscribe for free to get unrestricted access to all our resources on research writing and academic publishing including:
- 2000+ blog articles
- 50+ Webinars
- 10+ Expert podcasts
- 50+ Infographics
- 10+ Checklists
- Research Guides
We hate spam too. We promise to protect your privacy and never spam you.
I am looking for Editing/ Proofreading services for my manuscript Tentative date of next journal submission:
How do you envision generative AI (e.g., ChatGPT, Bard) being used in academic publishing workflows?
- Buying Guides
Complete Guides by How-To Geek
Our Latest Product Roundups
Reader favorites, more from how-to geek, latest geek news.
Latest Reviews
Across lifesavvy media.
Join 425,000 subscribers and get a daily digest of news, geek trivia, and our feature articles.
By submitting your email, you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy .
- AI & Machine Learning
Can ChatGPT Write Essays: Is Using AI to Write Essays a Good Idea?
Sydney Butler has over 20 years of experience as a freelance PC technician and system builder. He's worked for more than a decade in user education and spends his time explaining technology to professional, educational, and mainstream audiences. His interests include VR, PC, Mac, gaming, 3D printing, consumer electronics, the web, and privacy. He holds a Master of Arts degree in Research Psychology with a focus on Cyberpsychology in particular. Read more...
Navigating the digital landscape of education is no small task, especially when you bring AI tools like ChatGPT into the mix. If the thought of using ChatGPT to pen your essays has crossed your mind, here’s some food for thought.
ChatGPT: A Game Changer for Essay Writing?
We’ve crossed a new threshold in essay writing, thanks to ChatGPT. This AI powerhouse can spin out structured and relevant text with minimal or even zero human intervention. However, while it has the chops to draft essays, it’s crucial to understand its shortcomings and the ethical responsibility of maintaining academic integrity.
RELATED: ChatGPT: How to Use the AI Chatbot for Free
So, Can ChatGPT Draft Essays?
In a nutshell, yes. ChatGPT can whip up essays, but it’s not all roses. While it can generate text that emulates human composition, its reliability in offering accurate information or holding a consistent argument can be dicey. The bottom line: It doesn’t hold a candle to human reasoning, critical thinking, and fact verification.
The Two Faces of ChatGPT for Essays
Before we dive into the ethical maze of ChatGPT for essay writing, let’s hash out some practical aspects.
- Writing booster: As a first draft, AI-generated text could elevate your writing quality and introduce fresh angles.
- Pocket-friendly: For now, ChatGPT is accessible to every student free of charge.
- Consistency concerns: ChatGPT can occasionally crank out content that’s logically disjointed or factually off.
- Learning risks: A heavy reliance on ChatGPT might undercut the learning objectives of essay writing.
Note: Wielding ChatGPT effectively still demands a firm grip on critical reading and reasoning skills. You need knowledge of the subject area to make a good essay with ChatGPT!
Navigating the Ethics of AI in Essay Writing
Employing AI to pen essays stirs up a whirlwind of academic integrity questions. It’s a handy tool for sparking ideas and honing writing skills, but tipping into over-reliance could stray into academic dishonesty territory, with serious repercussions like academic sanctions, expulsion, or even degree retraction. The trick is to view AI as a sidekick, not a stand-in for your intellectual input.
RELATED: 6 Things You Shouldn't Use ChatGPT For
Drawing Parallels: AI and Contract Cheating
Ever considered how using ChatGPT for essay writing compares to paying someone to do your essay for you (a.k.a. contract cheating)? While both scenarios involve a degree of outsourcing, they differ. With ChatGPT, you’re still required to engage with the text, perform fact-checks, and ensure narrative consistency, unlike contract cheating.
Interestingly, it seems that ChatGPT is already affecting the livelihoods of professional contract cheating services . Whether this is a net positive or not is a matter of debate.
RELATED: Don't Trust ChatGPT to Do Math
Striking a Balance: AI Assistance and Academic Integrity
ChatGPT can be a powerful tool for enhancing your essays and writing style when used responsibly. By submitting your text for assessment to ChatGPT, you can receive improvement suggestions and weave these changes into your work, preserving your original ideas while leveraging the AI’s linguistic abilities.
AI Essay Writing: Handle with Care
As AI technologies charge ahead, the sophistication and prevalence of AI-driven essay-writing applications are set to grow. Students and educators must remember the potential upsides and pitfalls of incorporating AI into academic writing.
Yes, AI detection tools are on the horizon, but the line between AI-generated and human text is blurring, making detection increasingly challenging. Additionally, the risk of false positives could potentially label innocent students as cheaters. Originality AI, one of the leading companies working on AI detection tools for education, has this to say:
…at Originality.AI we don’t believe that an AI detection score alone is enough for disciplinary action… ( Originality AI )
Instead of banking on the impossible dream of foolproof detection, let’s focus on fostering a culture of academic honesty and mindful AI usage. As AI writing tools become commonplace, we must rethink our learning assessments to integrate these tools responsibly.
As AI writing assistance becomes baked into software like Microsoft Word, it won’t be feasible to penalize every student who uses it. Perhaps more importantly, the world we are preparing students for will require effective skills in using these AI tools.
RELATED: 8 ChatGPT AI Alternatives (Free and Paid)
Our task lies in educating students on using these tools ethically and effectively to augment their intellectual development rather than overshadow it. In a world increasingly reliant on AI, we need to ensure we’re not outsourcing our critical thinking but using AI as a valuable companion on our academic journeys.
- › How to Tell If an Article Was Written by ChatGPT
- › How to Make ChatGPT Copy Your Writing Style
- › How to Optimize Multiple Stops Into a Round Trip on Google Maps
- › The Best DDR5 RAM of 2023
- › Goodbye, Cortana
- › 5 Reasons to Upgrade to the 11th Gen Kindle Paperwhite
- › How to Add a Shortcut to Pretty Much Anything on Android
- › Physical vs. Digital Games: Should You Buy Physical Games?
compare programs >
immersion programs: New York City
immersion programs
Engage in a rich and demanding academic experience on Columbia's tranquil campus, in the heart of New York City.
immersion programs: online
Dive into an Ivy League education with Columbia’s world-class instructors, and a dynamic online experience.
Columbia Writing academy
Develop your skills and learn new techniques to write a powerful college admissions essay.
college edge program
Earn credit and prepare to maximize your college experience during the summer and academic terms.
summer high school academic program for engineers (SHAPE)
Gain computer programming and problem-solving skills in this three-week program taught online by leading coding experts.
columbia climate school in the green mountains
Join us for the first-ever Climate School pre-college program this summer in Castleton, Vermont.
Dates & Tuition >
internship in building community
A summer internship for undergraduate and graduate students interested in leadership and community development.
- Enrolled Students
- Program Policies
- Request More Information
Columbia Writing Academy: Writing the College Admissions Essay
- Sign Up for Updates
Course Description
The Columbia Writing Academy is a two-week course designed for those who want to use the power of writing to develop their own personal voice and style. Through a combination of workshops and tutorials, students will learn new writing techniques and develop the skills and confidence to write a powerful college admissions essay. As many colleges place less emphasis on standardized test scores, the admissions essay has taken a larger role in the application process. In this course, students will explore each stage in the essay writing process—brainstorming, drafting, revising—and will receive in-depth feedback from the teaching team throughout the process.
Please note that this course follows an atypical schedule:
Monday, Tuesday & Thursday evenings from 7:00 to 8:15 p.m. (EST)
Instructor(s)
Nancy Sommers designed and created the Columbia Writing Academy: Writing the College Admissions Essay specifically for high-achieving and motivated high school students who want to craft powerful admissions essays. Dr.Sommers assembled a select group of talented, experienced writers and writing instructors who lead weekly small-group seminars and meet with students for 1:1 tutorials. The Seminar Leaders come to the Columbia Writing Academy with extensive teaching experience and an unwavering commitment to their students’ success.
Nancy Sommers is a prize-winning writer and teacher who led the Harvard College Writing Program for twenty years and currently teaches at Harvard’s Graduate School of Education. She is the author of four college writing handbooks—A Writer’s Reference, A Pocket Style Manual, Rules for Writers, and The Bedford Handbook—and is an internationally-recognized leader in the field of writing studies for her scholarly work and for her films "Shaped by Writing," "Across the Drafts," and "Beyond the Red Ink." Sommers served for ten years on the Harvard College Admissions Committee, and she brings her knowledge about successful admissions essays—and how to craft them—to inspire and instruct Columbia Writing Academy students.
Kimberly is a writer, educator, and actor. She has taught extensively at Harvard, both writing and public speaking courses. Her acting has been featured on Netflix and in national technology commercials.
Sarah is a writer, editor, and instructor at Columbia University and Harvard. She has published widely in a range of publications, including Brevity, The Rumpus, and Electric Literature, and is a regular contributor to The New Yorker and McSweeney’s.
Tim is a writer, educator, and instructor who has taught extensively at Harvard and Columbia. Tim is also an actor who leads workshops and performs improv at the Groundings Theater.
Jennifer is a writer and educator who has directed writing-intensive programs for high school students at the Field Academy and has taught extensively at Harvard and Columbia. She is a writer of creative nonfiction and has received numerous grants and awards for her writing.
Back to the Course Guide
IMAGES
VIDEO
COMMENTS
As a nursing student, you will write different types of texts, such as research papers and group presentations. All of this writing has common characteristics: to be concise, evidence-based, supported by credible and appropriate research, to be professional, and to follow APA style.
Walden instructors often ask nursing students to write position and reflective papers, critique articles, gather and analyze data, respond to case studies, and work collaboratively on a project. Although there may be differences between the writing expectations within the classroom and those in the workplace, the standards noted below, though ...
Writing a Nursing Essay Citations Guide Common Writing Mistakes Writing Resources This guide offers writing tips for nursing students and covers the diverse writing styles aspiring nurses should master during their studies. Credit: kupicoo | E+ | Getty Images Are you ready to earn your online nursing degree?
With this in mind, suggestions for scholarly writing in nursing are presented in this article, organized according to Paul's criteria for critical thinking: clarity, precision, specificity, accuracy, relevance, consistency, logicalness, depth, completeness, significance, fairness, and adequacy for purpose.
In general, the writing self-efficacy scores indicate that overall students have a positive belief about their ability to write scholarly papers. This multi-component writing program contains scientific writing skills that APRNs need to improve nursing care and science. The checklist expands upon existing writing education strategies for nurses.
Scholarly writing is the type of writing that NPs should learn in their graduate-level professional and research courses. Those who are credentialed as PhD or DNP are expected to have a clear and concise written communication style. There is a big focus in nursing on critical thinking. Scholarly communication is a step beyond critical thinking ...
Writing a thesis presents an opportunity for graduate students to conduct scholarly inquiry, with the potential of publishing their finished paper. A thesis requires nursing students to identify a problem in nursing, and review academic literature while developing advanced research skills. Thesis advisors and committees guide students from the ...
Clinical review articles that provide the most up-to-date evidence on best practice for specific diseases or conditions. Nursing and medical knowledge is constantly growing, and nurses need up-to-date information in order to provide optimal care. Clinical review articles provide an in-depth understanding of a disease, condition, or procedure.
"Karen Roush's earlier book on writing a dissertation or scholarly project has become the 'go-to' resource for scores of doctoral students. In her new book, Roush has again demonstrated her unique knack for simplifying a process—the often-arduous steps necessary for turning a dissertation or capstone project into a manuscript worthy ...
General APA Guidelines 1-inch margins on all sides 12-point fond Times Roman or Courier Use only one space after the end of sentences, initials in personal names, commas, colons, and semicolons. No more than 27 lines per page. Double spacing throughout, including reference page
Yes: read, read and read more. The best way to learn to write a good article is to constantly read the same. Think ahead when designing research so it is based on evidence and the presentation is logical, ethical and clinically important. And follow author guidelines for a particular journal.
In a clinical paper this section may be called "nursing implications" or "implications for practice." It answers the question: how would nurses use this information in their practice? ... Make sure your conclusion is supported by your findings and that it speaks directly to the purpose of the paper. WRITING WELL. Good scholarly writing ...
Nurses' ability to write on a scholarly and professional level also demonstrates their ability to summarize information effectively, engage in lifelong learning and information literacy...
Other tips include: Form a well-thought-out thesis statement to set a clear purpose for your paper. Create an outline so you have a roadmap while writing your paper. An outline aids the writer with arranging key points and organizing the flow of the paper. Develop a spreadsheet to keep track of the information needed for references.
How to create a Nursing Research Paper Last Updated: 03 March 2023 Writing a nursing research paper is the same as writing any research paper in structure, source requirements, formatting, and style.
Academic or scholarly writing and publishing and related subjects span several disciplines, Library floors, and subject headings. Below are just a few selected examples of Library of Congress call number ranges for browsing. Writing in Nursing and Health Sciences: 9th Floor RT 24 Nursing- Authorship Writing: 5th Floor LB 2369 Academic Writing
To write a nursing essay, you will need to have excellent writing skills and knowledge about the nursing profession. You will also need to be able to research and cite your sources correctly. There are different expectations based on whether it is an expository essay, part of a coursework, or a research paper written as a professional nurse.
Three General Rules Be Precise This may seem to go without saying, but you should remember that accuracy is important even beyond the obvious areas like medication administration and treatment procedure. Accurately reporting sequences of events, doctor's orders, and patient concerns will protect you from scrutiny. Example: "Did dressing change."
Take notes and organize the information to ensure you can easily reference it during the writing process. Create an Outline: Develop a clear and logical structure for your nursing paper. Outline ...
Topic Relevancy Matters The relevancy of your topic to the specific course is just as crucial as your interest in the desired topic. You should select a topic that has been analyzed severally in the past, and that way, it will be easier to find relevant, credible, and up-to-date references.
Take notes and organize the information to ensure you can easily reference it during the writing process. Create an Outline: Develop a clear and logical structure for your nursing paper. Outline the main sections and subheadings, ensuring a smooth flow of ideas and arguments. Write a Strong Introduction: Begin your paper with a compelling ...
A research paper outline consists of following sections to simplify the paper for readers. These sections help researchers build an effective paper outline. 1. Title Page. The title page provides important information which helps the editors, reviewers, and readers identify the manuscript and the authors at a glance.
Create an outline to work from, as this will help you stay focused and cohesive in your writing. 2. Make Yourself Stand Out. Effective nursing school essays express your personality while convincing the reader you are the right candidate for the program. A great way to do this is by sharing a story about yourself.
While ChatGPT can potentially boost essay writing, it has limitations and raises ethical concerns. Critical reasoning and fact-checking remain vital, as AI tools can sometimes lack accuracy and consistency. Ensuring ethical usage, fostering academic integrity, and integrating AI responsibly into education are essential as AI becomes commonplace.
Course Description. The Columbia Writing Academy is a two-week course designed for those who want to use the power of writing to develop their own personal voice and style. Through a combination of workshops and tutorials, students will learn new writing techniques and develop the skills and confidence to write a powerful college admissions essay.