Statistics, grant writing, and study designs are taught within many textbooks and courses, yet taking research ideas to peer-reviewed publications mandates many practical skills that are often relegated to individual mentors. From evidence-based habits to maximize productivity and team management skills, efficient data collection, prevalent statistical pitfalls, writing convincing cover letters, and compelling response to reviewers, mastering practical skills without intentional instruction from experienced mentors is challenging. For students and early-career academics, mastering these skills-the "hidden curriculum"- can spell the difference between activity and productivity, between a project that is never completed to multiple peer-reviewed publications. For faculty and advisors, having students who master these skills can spell the difference between a dysfunctional and efficient research team, and between a standstill and burgeoning academic career. Based on the "Practical Introduction to Research Skills" course taught at Stanford School of Medicine, this comprehensive yet concise guidebook compiles practical lessons -often missing in existing educational curricula- that could elevate academic productivity of students and early career academics, particularly within, but not exclusive to, the biomedical disciplines.