Abstract

This guide offers a comprehensive framework for developing impactful theory papers, emphasizing a structured, iterative approach from idea conception to manuscript completion. Drawing on foundational works by Makadok, Burton, and Barney (2018), Cornelissen (2017), Lange and Pfarrer (2017), and Barney (2018), it outlines essential phases and exercises to support theorists in crafting meaningful contributions. Phase 1 introduces the anatomy of a theory, detailing eight core components: research question, mode of theorizing, level of analysis, phenomenon, causal mechanisms, constructs and variables, boundary conditions, and outputs, alongside three theorizing styles: propositional, narrative, and typological. Phase 2 guides authors in refining their core idea, identifying their theoretical path (e.g., developing new theory, enhancing existing theory, synthesizing literatures), and selecting foundational literatures to ground their work. Phase 3 focuses on specifying the theory-building apparatus and clarifying the chosen theorizing style, encouraging visual representations to enhance clarity. Phase 4 is about crafting the manuscript. It provides strategies for crafting compelling introductions using either Lange and Pfarrer’s five building blocks: common ground, complication, concern, course of action, and contribution or Barney’s three-paragraph structure. It concludes with guidance on writing effective discussions, conclusions, abstracts, and titles, emphasizing clarity, relevance, and excitement. By integrating these elements, theorists can position their work for publication, particularly in outlets like the Academy of Management Review (AMR), where clear articulation of theoretical contribution is paramount. The guide underscores that successful theory papers do not necessarily introduce radical paradigms but often extend, clarify, or creatively apply existing theories. Ultimately, it equips scholars with practical tools to navigate the complexities of theory development, fostering originality, coherence, and scholarly impact.

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