Workshop ‘How to write and publish your first journal article’

Publish or perish? The truth is that having an article published during your PhD is crucial to building an academic career and getting your ideas out into the field. And although monographs still carry serious weight, articles are more widely read – especially when available in open access. Some PhD students even opt for articles rather than a traditional dissertation to obtain their degree. But what makes a successful journal article? Which journals are most appropriate for your research? How does peer review work? And what’s the deal with open access?

In this workshop, taught by David van der Linden (managing editor of the journal Early Modern Low Countries), we’ll take a closer look at the submission, review, and publication process of a journal article. PhD and ReMa Students working on any theme, area, or period in cultural history are welcome to attend. Prior to the workshop, participants are asked to draft an introduction to their planned journal article and peer-review each other’s work. We will discuss these drafts and reviews during the day. The workshop will include plenty of opportunity to ask questions, and shall offer useful tips and tricks for getting your article accepted.

Location

Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam,HG-09A32

Indicative programme

• 10h00: Walk-in with coffee and tea
• 10h15: Welcome and introduction
• 10h30: Understanding the process: from submission to publication
• 11h00: Discussion of peer reviews in small groups, followed by plenary discussion
• 12h30: Lunch break
• 14h00: How to write a journal introduction (exercise and plenary discussion)
• 15h30: General tips & tricks, followed by Q&A
• 16h00: Drinks

Learning aims and outcomes

At the end of this workshop, you will have:

• A thorough understanding of the publication process of journal articles;
• The ability to adequately structure and write a journal article;
• The ability to write a peer review and respond to comments on your own written work.

 Assessment and assignments

Preparatory assignment: prior to the workshop, participants are asked to write and submit an introduction to their planned article – in English (deadline: 12 March 2024 – [email protected]). You are also expected to write a peer review on two introductions submitted by your fellow students; these texts will be assigned to you prior to the workshop and must again be handed in before class.

During the workshop students should actively participate in group discussions.

 (Preliminary) Literature:

Kate L. Turabian et al., A Manual for Writers of Term Papers, Theses, and Dissertations, 9^th ed. (Chicago, 2018).

NB: relevant sections will be provided as a PDF file prior to the workshop.