Advice for authors

If you want to write a module for BMJ Learning then please contact the editor before you start. Contact Dr Kieran Walsh on kmwalsh@bmjgroup.com. If you do write a module then please keep in mind the following points:

1. Please make sure that your module contains the following paragraphs:

• Learning outcomes: say what a reader should be able to do in the management of a patient after going through your module
• About the author: tell us about your current position and where it is
• Why I wrote this module: give some background to your topic and discuss why doctors may make mistakes around the topic and why it is important and relevant
• Four key points: these should be the most important points of your modules - the take home messages
• Two to three clinical tips: these should be more practical tips.

2. Directions on multiple choice questions (MCQs)

Our learning modules test knowledge with MCQs. They are a central part of your module. Please make sure that you consider the following points:

• Please send us 12 MCQs with 4-5 possible answers a) to e) - each MCQ with one correct answer
• The questions should be positive single choice with only one correct answer
• All questions need to be answerable by just reading your module
• Problem orientated questions in form of a short case description are best
• Make sure that each question focuses only on one problem
• The answers you offer should be homogeneous: for example 5 diagnostic procedures, 5 therapeutic interventions
• Avoid ambiguous question and answer options
• Avoid options that contain vague terms such as "common," "often," "rare," "sometimes," and absolute statements such as "never" or "always."
• Please give us the solutions of your questions with a statement and explanation for each answer
• Please check all your questions and answers carefully.

3. Advice on style

• Please use active language. Say: you should prescribe . . . instead of: it should be prescribed
• Please don't use abbreviations. BMJ Learning is an international website, and many readers won't know what ICU or WBC stand for. You can use NHS and GP however
• Please use simple short words, use short sentences and avoid noun clusters (for example: instead of self harm history use history of self harm)
• Please use a patient friendly language. For example: avoid "elderly" and "diabetics" - use "elderly people" and "people with diabetes."