Turning your dissertation into a journal article

Selecting the appropriate journal is crucial and requires research in order to find the right fit. Upon selecting a journal to submit your work, it is important to consider who your audience is, and whether your research contributes to that particular field of study. All journals are different - and it is necessary that your research is up to date. DBS Applied Research and Theory Journal is a prime example of a journal that strives to present the research community with important research regarding various topics. 

• To identify the appropriate journal to submit your research, It is recommended that you refer back to journals you consulted with in your dissertation to better gage the primary fields where your research is applicable. Identifying a common area of research is important as it will allow you to further build upon existing literature and findings.
• Prior to submitting your work to a journal you should refer to previous editions of the journal to identify journal articles that are similar to your own research. Remember that your research should be unique, original and present new data and ideas. 
• Identifying your audience is key when it comes to selecting a journal you believe is suitable. Analyse who may be reading said journal and whether your research will appeal to this audience.
• Ensure the journal you select to publish your work is reliable and trustworthy. 

The image below explains broadly the publication cycle:

Here is a brief explanation of each phase. The publication cycle begins with submission to the journal phase and works clockwise to the paper accepted stage. 

Submission to the Journal: Make sure you submit before the submission deadline. 

Desktop Review: The editor reviews the submission for issues like plagiarism and originality. 

Peer Review: The article is reviewed by an expert in the area. 

Revision: The peer reviewer will often return the article to the author with some changes required. These changes can be minor or major changes. Minor changes could be improving your referencing or tidying up the spelling and grammar. Major changes could mean you have a lot more work to do. 

Editor/ Peer Reviewer evaluation: The editor and the peer reviewer will revise the author's changes before deciding to publish the submission. 

Paper accepted: The submission is ready to publish in the next journal volume. Congratulations, all your hard word has paid off!