Document Type : Review Articles

Abstract

Introduction: The criteria for considering an article for publication in journals have undergone dramatic changes. Therefore, young researchers should get familiar with common errors and problems during designing studies and preparation of the articles reporting the results of studies. The present study was designed to investigate the most common mistakes that young researchers make during different phases of research protocols in order to improve the quality of research studies.Materials and Methods: The present review article was prepared by a comprehensive search in the ISI web of science to find articles that offer research guidelines for young researchers, with an emphasis on a recently published review article. Given possible errors during preparation of research articles, young researchers should have a sound knowledge of all the different stages of the study, which necessitates the evaluation of previous studies and familiarity with principles of research.Results: Before any attempts to start a clinical study, the protocol and the design of the study should be precisely defined and the type of the study determined. In addition, the researcher should evaluate the statistical methods of the study himself/herself or with the help of a statistical consultant in relation to the adequacy of population size and efficacy of sampling procedures in order to increase the power and validity of the study.Conclusion: There are important considerations in clinical studies, attention to which can help young researchers.Key words: Clinical research, Researcher, Statistics.