Thread by @JobFran

Ten years after the publication of my first scientific article I’ve taken some time to reflect on what I’ve learned about publishing in sport science. This might help early career academics form their own perspectives:

1. Existential crises are common. Does anyone really read this? Is my work relevant? These disappear however when you are confident in the quality of your work. This took me almost a decade to realise.

2. Don’t chase metrics. Despite the tyranny of academic metrics, they are not something to be actively chased. You’ll end up feeling empty if you do. The sooner you get away from the metrics, the better you feel.

3. Good work comes from insight. Insight comes from time. If you don’t make spare time in the work day for yourself, the first thing you lose is the critical insight that’s so vital for producing and communicating scientific work.

4. Publish in high quality outlets. This isn’t determined by impact factor, but by what the journal stands for, the editorial staff and how much you trust the review process. IMO be aware of ‘quick-turnaround’ or ‘pay-to-play’ journals, even some that are seemingly ‘reputable’.

5. Don’t simply be a “co”-author. Either you are an author or you are not. Of course, co author work with others, but don’t act like a spectator and put your name on someone else’s paper. If your name is on it, you have responsibilities for its content.

6. Work with people you respect. Work with (non-) academics you know will produce good work, and have the integrity to realise it when they don’t.

7. Other academics don’t bite. If you’re interested in their work, email or message them on professional network websites. Most are happy to talk to you and discuss their work.

8. Admit your mistakes. Making mistakes happens, especially as a younger academic. I’ve made more than my fair share. Never defend something you know is wrong, just admit it and do it differently next time. You can’t know everything.

9. Be kind to others. When (co-)-authoring or reviewing, be constructively critical. Be polite and kind and treat others as you would like to be treated. Not everyone is a seasoned academics.

10. Beware of false idols. Tom Cruise is smaller than you think in real life. Don’t assume ‘big names’ are all nice people or good academics. Many of them are but use your wits and decide for yourself.

11. Don’t stick to what you know, but don’t invest in what you don’t. Exploring new areas is common, but consult area experts. Don’t think ‘publishing is the same in all fields to I’ll do it alone’. There’s no shame in consulting people who ar me more knowledgeable than you are.

These are some of the insights gained in my short academic career so far, many of which only came to me in the last (tumultuous) two years. As always, DM/email with questions.