In celebration of National Writing Month, there’s no better time to share your voice with the nursing professional development (NPD) community. Reflecting on what you learned from a recent project? Thinking about best practices? Looking back on how you've grown in your role? NPD in Motion wants to hear from you. Your insight could help NPD practitioners facing similar challenges, or inspire them to try something new.
About NPD in Motion
NPD in Motion, the official digital publication of the Association for Nursing Professional Development (ANPD), is designed to spotlight innovative practices, emerging trends, and support the NPD community in their continuing professional development journey. It serves as a dynamic platform for NPD practitioners to share insights, strategies, and stories that advance the specialty and enhance healthcare outcomes.
Whether you’re a seasoned writer or submitting your first piece, crafting a compelling article for NPD in Motion requires more than just expertise. It demands clarity, relevance, and a strong connection to the NPD Practice Model. This article offers practical writing tips to help you communicate your ideas effectively, engage readers, and contribute meaningfully to the ongoing dialogue shaping the future of nursing professional development.
NPD Practice Model (Harper & Maloney, 2022)
Here are some tips to help you craft a compelling submission:
1. Start with a Clear Purpose
Before you begin writing, ask yourself: What do I want readers to learn, feel, or do after reading this? A strong article has a focused message. Whether it’s sharing a success story, offering a new strategy, or reflecting on a challenge, have an idea of what you’re trying to convey. Keep your purpose front and center to guide the article structure and tone.
2. Know Your Audience
NPD in Motion readers are NPD practitioners — educators and leaders. They value content that is relevant, actionable, and grounded in real-world practice. Use language that speaks to their experiences and avoid jargon unless it’s commonly understood in the field.
3. Stay Grounded in the NPD Scope & Standards of Practice
The Nursing Professional Development: Scope & Standards of Practice, 4th Ed. (Harper & Maloney, 2022) delineate competencies for all NPD practitioners—serving as a roadmap to successful NPD practice. Connect how your practice, project, or story aligns with the NPD Scope & Standards of Practice by choosing two to three key NPD standards. Which competency statements support this work? How are you fulfilling those competencies?
4. Tell a Story
Even in professional writing, storytelling is powerful. Frame your article around a narrative, perhaps a challenge you faced, a lesson learned, or a moment of transformation. Stories make writing personal, making your message memorable.
5. Be Concise and Conversational
Aim for clarity over complexity. Use short paragraphs and standard terminology. A conversational tone helps readers stay engaged and makes your writing more approachable. Think of it as sharing your experiences with a colleague.
6. Include Practical Takeaways
Readers appreciate articles that offer tools, tips, or strategies they can apply in their own practice. Whether it’s a resource, a framework, or a reflection question, give other NPD practitioners something they can use or think about after reading.
7. Polish Before You Submit
Once your draft is complete, take time to revise. Read it aloud to catch awkward phrasing, check for grammar and spelling, and ensure your message flows logically. If possible, ask a colleague, family member, or friend, to review it—fresh eyes can catch mistakes or offer suggestions you wouldn’t have thought of.
Your experiences matter, so let them be heard! Submitting to NPD in Motion is a great way to contribute to the collective growth of the ANPD community. Learn more about the submission process or send in your article to NPD in Motion through this link.