In the field of scientific research, manuscripts should be composed in a very well-structured manner that possesses a high impact. The manuscript structure is classified into two parts one part includes the introduction, method, results, and discussion (IMRaD pattern) and the other part contains the abstract, title, figures, tables, keywords, graphs, and conclusion. Once the manuscript pattern is confirmed, the next thing is to write it up coherently and concisely that tell the theme of the paper. Hence, the research paper follows a standard structure that is stated by the target journal. IMRaD structure is the standard structure of the body of the manuscript.

IMRAD structure overview: 

Introduction: It comprises the background information and the purpose of the research work that is helpful for readers in understanding the theme of the research work.

Material and methods: This includes details on how the entire research work was conducted. Often sub-headings are used to state different methodologies used in the research article. All parameters and statistical tests are clearly stated.

Result: In this section, the output of the research work is stated with a logical flow.

Discussion and Conclusion: This section is a detailed analysis of the results. The body of this part is discussed in such a way that of most to least important along with the stated conclusion.

However, the IMRaD pattern may or may not vary for different research article types, such as case reports or review articles.

The essential elements involved in improving manuscript structure are listed below.

Most research papers would have a fitting analogy in their structure in that particular paper. The manuscript should begin with broad statements, then focus on the specific area of study, and conclude with broad considerations. The title is a significant part of the manuscript and it should be interesting which would draw the attention of the reader. The background information of the manuscript and the objective of the author should be reflected in the introduction part of the paper. Author guidelines should be followed for formatting the manuscript effectively. Long paragraphs and short sentences should also be avoided. Theoretical explanation of the study is important to upgrade the structure. So for this, the manuscripts should be crafted according to the journal’s requirements, to ace the process of paper submission as the editorial team will not return for formatting the manuscript. The full details of all techniques, methods, and instruments should be provided including photographs or diagrams, as well as tables. Always validity and reliability of the instruments and analysis method used in the paper should be presented clearly. Emphasize the most important findings of the research paper and highlight them. Then move forward to all the peripheral findings. Script it in such a way that the author won’t find any complications in understanding the results. Other texts like unexpected or surprising results, must be highlighted. The tables and figures are to be used in such a way that they are easy to understand at first glance. The summary of the research paper should be explained rather than simply stating the statistical data. The text should not contain a detailed description if tables and figures are used.

Noted here are a few key points that one needs to keep in mind for improving the manuscript’s structure and organization, before submitting it for peer review.