Manuscript Mappillai
Find the perfect journal match for your manuscript.
Manuscript Mappillai is a unique and engaging programme that simplifies the process of journal selection for researchers. Using a fun “mappillai–bride” analogy, it helps you understand how to find the perfect journal for your manuscript by considering factors like scope, metrics, publication model, quality, and reputation — while also helping you avoid predatory journals.
Overview
"Made for each other."
Perhaps you may not hear these exact words in your PhD journey, but a step before this is "Congratulations! your article has been accepted for publication.
Manuscript Mappillai is a fun and funny take on journal selection.
If your manuscript is the "mappillai" (groom) and the journal that publishes that manuscript is the bride, what are the various factors you have to consider for a perfect match?
Who This Is For
- PhD scholars and researchers who already have data but are struggling to write the paper
- Researchers who have completed analysis but find it difficult to convert it into a manuscript
- Scholars preparing articles from thesis chapters
- Early career researchers planning their first journal publication
- Researchers looking for a structured environment to complete a draft
Participants should come prepared with their research data and be ready to actively write during the sessions.
Who This Is Not For
- Researchers who have not yet collected or analysed their data
- Participants looking only for theory or motivational talks
- Researchers expecting someone else to write or edit their paper
- Scholars unwilling to actively write during the programme
EzhudhuWar Room focuses on active writing. Progress happens through guided action.
Programme Structure
Duration: 90 minutes | online or offline | outlines all factors needed for journal selection
The programme is conducted through eight focused sessions designed to help participants write their article section by section.
Session 1–2: Understanding the structure of a research paper and drafting the introduction.
Session 3–4: Positioning the research within literature and building the argument.
Session 5–6: Writing results, discussion, and conclusion sections.
Session 7: Preparing the abstract and refining the manuscript.
Session 8: Writing the journal cover letter and preparing the submission strategy.
Key Features
Section-wise writing approach. Participants draft their article step by step within the sessions.
Focused writing environment. The programme creates a distraction-free environment that encourages deep writing.
Hands-on drafting sessions. Participants actively write their manuscript sections during the programme.
Peer momentum. Writing alongside fellow researchers creates accountability and motivation.
Submission readiness. Participants leave with a structured manuscript draft and cover letter.
Outcomes
By the end of this programme, you will understand how to shortlist journals based on:
- Aim and scope
- Metrics that are indispensable
- The publication model (OA vs subscription)
- Quality and
- Perception
You will also be able to recognize predatory journals, so your manuscript doesn’t fall in the wrong hands (literally).
Why delay writing your paper when you can complete it in two days?
Instead of postponing your writing for months, use two focused days to prepare a complete draft of your research article.
EzhudhuWar Room creates the structure, focus, and momentum needed to finally move from a blank page to a complete manuscript draft.
Frequently Asked Questions
Programme Structure & Format
How long does the programme run?
EzhudhuGoal runs over 13 weeks. The structure is intentionally spread out to allow writing habits to develop gradually rather than through short bursts of intensity. The programme is offered twice a year.
Is this an intensive workshop or an extended programme?
It is an extended programme. The design prioritises consistency and continuity over short-term productivity. The goal is to bring about a mental shift towards writing with ease.
How often do sessions take place?
Live sessions are conducted weekly, with reflection practices and activities to be completed during the following weeks. The cadence is designed to integrate with academic responsibilities rather than compete with them.
What happens during a typical session?
Sessions typically include:
- Guided reflection on writing challenges
- Structured writing discussion or framing
- Small-group conversation
- Clarification of writing tasks before the next phase
There is no performative writing or public critique.
Is there writing during the live sessions?
Live sessions focus on structure, reflection, and discussion. Writing primarily happens between sessions, within a guided framework.
Is the programme lecture-based?
No. While there is facilitation and structured input, the format is interactive and reflective rather than lecture-driven.
Will I receive templates or writing models?
The programme does not centre around generic templates. Instead, it focuses on helping participants understand how to structure their own writing process in a transferable way.
Is there homework?
There are structured writing tasks between sessions. These are not graded, but they form the core of the learning experience.
Delivery & Logistics
Is the programme online or in person?
The non-institutional version is delivered online in small, focused groups to allow participation across institutions and locations. Institutional programmes are conducted online or offline, based on the institution’s preference.
Are sessions recorded?
Recordings may be available for reference, but live participation is strongly encouraged to preserve the reflective and interactive nature of the programme.
What is the expected weekly time commitment?
Participants should allocate consistent time for writing between sessions. The programme works best when writing becomes part of a weekly rhythm rather than an occasional effort.
What if I miss a session?
While occasional absence is understandable, the programme is cumulative. Missing multiple sessions may reduce the benefit of the structured progression.
What is the group size?
Group size is intentionally limited to ensure meaningful discussion and cognitive safety.
Fit & Eligibility
Who is this programme best suited for?
It is designed for :
- PhD scholars (particularly mid-to-late stage)
- Early-career faculty
- Researchers working toward publications
Is this suitable for complete beginners in research writing?
Participants should already be engaged in academic work. The programme focuses on structure and sustainability rather than basic academic writing instruction.
Is this discipline-specific?
No. The principles of writing structure and rhythm apply across disciplines.
Do I need to be working on a specific paper to join?
While having an active writing project helps, the programme focuses on process development rather than one specific manuscript.
Is this suitable if I am facing writer’s block?
Yes. The programme addresses structural causes of stalled writing rather than offering motivational fixes.
Philosophy & Approach
Is this a productivity programme?
No. While productivity may improve as a result, the primary goal is to build a sustainable writing system.
Will my writing be publicly critiqued?
No. The programme does not involve public line-by-line critique. The focus is on understanding writing processes, not evaluating individual drafts.
Do I need to be working on a specific paper to join?
While having an active writing project helps, the programme focuses on process development rather than one specific manuscript.
Is this therapy for writers?
No. Although reflective in nature, the programme is academically grounded and structure-oriented.
What makes this different from other writing workshops?
EzhudhuGoal:
- Is extended rather than intensive
- Focuses on process rather than output
- Prioritises consistent practice over publication pressure
- Keeps groups small for depth
Outcomes & Continuity
What can I realistically expect by the end?
Participants typically gain:
- Greater clarity about their writing process
- A repeatable writing rhythm
- Reduced anxiety around beginning
Will I finish a paper during the programme?
Completion depends on individual pace and project stage. The programme supports progress, not guaranteed completion.
What happens after the programme ends?
Participants retain the structural tools and writing rhythm developed during the programme. Follow-up formats may be announced separately.
Administrative Questions
What is the fee structure?
(To be added once finalised.)
Is there a certificate of participation
(To be clarified based on your decision.)
Are institutional nominations allowed?
Yes. Institutions may nominate participants subject to cohort size limits.
About the Speaker
Murugaraj Shanmugam
Founder of Tholga Research Consulting and an academic writing and publication coach with over 21 years of experience in the academic publishing industry.
He has mentored PhD scholars and faculty from institutions such as ISB, MIDS, Sathyabama Institute of Science and Technology, and Bharathidasan University.
His expertise includes manuscript preparation, journal submission strategies, and guiding researchers from research to successful publication.
Begin Your Writing Journey
If you are ready to write with structure and purpose, Manuscript Mapillai offers a guided path.
Serious scholarship grows from disciplined practice.