1. Preparation of Manuscript
a. Title
Be concise and informative: The title should accurately represent the content and findings of the research.
Avoid abbreviations: Abbreviations should be used sparingly and should be defined at first use in the abstract or main body.
Descriptive: Include keywords that make the paper easily searchable.
b. Abstract
Structured Abstract: Include sections such as Background, Methods, Results, and Conclusion.
Word limit: Typically, an abstract should not exceed 250–300 words.
Clear and concise: Provide a snapshot of the study's aims, methods, results, and conclusions.
c. Keywords
Select 4-6 relevant keywords that reflect the core focus of the research.
Avoid terms already in the title and use terms commonly searched by your target audience.
2. Manuscript Structure
a. Introduction
Contextualize the research: Briefly discuss the background of the problem, the research question, and the study’s objectives.
Literature review: Summarize existing research that is relevant to your study, identify gaps, and explain how your work addresses these gaps.
Hypothesis/Research Question: Clearly state the hypothesis or the research questions the study aims to address.
b. Methods
Study design: Describe the overall research design and methodology used.
Participants/Sample: If applicable, detail the sample size, selection criteria, and characteristics of participants.
Instruments and Materials: Include descriptions of surveys, tests, or equipment used in the study.
Procedures: Provide a clear, step-by-step account of the procedures followed in the study.
Data Analysis: Specify the methods used to analyze the data (e.g., statistical tests, coding for qualitative data).
c. Results
Present data clearly: Use tables, figures, and charts as appropriate to display results.
Statistical significance: Report statistical tests, p-values, confidence intervals, effect sizes, etc.
Text: Interpret the data objectively. Avoid speculation about the significance of results in this section.
d. Discussion
Interpret findings: Relate your results to existing research, explaining any differences or similarities.
Limitations: Acknowledge limitations of your study, such as sample size, design constraints, or potential biases.
Implications: Discuss the broader implications of your findings for theory, practice, policy, or future research.
Conclusions: Summarize key findings and propose next steps or areas for further investigation.
e. References
Accurate citation: Ensure that all cited sources are listed in the reference section and formatted according to the required style (e.g., APA, MLA, Chicago, etc.).
Consistency: Maintain consistency in referencing style throughout the manuscript.
Up-to-date: Cite recent sources to demonstrate that the research is informed by current knowledge in the field.
3. Formatting Guidelines
Font and Size: Typically, Times New Roman, 12-point font, with double-spacing for the text.
Margins: Standard 1-inch margins on all sides.
Headings: Use clear, consistent headings and subheadings to organize the sections of the manuscript.
Page numbers: Number all pages consecutively, including the title page, abstract, and references.
4. Figures and Tables
Quality: Ensure figures and tables are of high quality and legible (e.g., high-resolution images, clear labels).
Captions: Each figure and table should have a clear and concise caption explaining what the reader is seeing.
Placement: Figures and tables should be placed in the manuscript close to where they are first mentioned or in separate files if specified by the publisher.
5. Ethical Considerations
Informed Consent: If the study involves human participants, ensure informed consent is obtained.
Ethical approval: Mention ethical approval (e.g., IRB approval) if applicable.
Conflicts of Interest: Authors must disclose any potential conflicts of interest, financial or otherwise.
Plagiarism: Ensure that the manuscript is free from plagiarism. Cite all sources and ideas appropriately.
6. Author Contributions
Define roles: Clearly define the specific contributions of each author to the manuscript (e.g., conception, data collection, analysis, writing).
Acknowledgments: Recognize individuals who provided assistance but do not meet authorship criteria (e.g., funding sources, technical support).
7. Revision and Proofreading
Self-edit: Ensure the manuscript is clear, concise, and free from spelling and grammatical errors.
Peer review: Many journals require that manuscripts undergo peer review before publication. Respond to reviewers’ comments thoroughly.
Follow editor’s instructions: Adhere to any revisions or format changes suggested by the journal editor.
8. Submission Process
Journal requirements: Review and follow the specific submission guidelines for the journal or conference, such as file format, document length, and supplementary material.
Cover letter: Some journals require a cover letter. In this case, briefly explain the significance of your research and why it is a good fit for the journal.
Declaration: Authors may need to sign a declaration that the manuscript is original, not under consideration elsewhere, and complies with all ethical standards.
9. Post-Submission
Revisions: Be prepared to revise your manuscript in response to reviewer comments.
Copyright transfer: Many publishers require authors to transfer copyright for publication.
Open Access: If applicable, indicate whether the paper will be published as open access and any associated costs.
10. General Tips
Clarity and Precision: Use clear, direct language. Avoid jargon or overly technical terms unless they are necessary for your audience.
Avoid Redundancy: Do not repeat ideas or concepts unnecessarily. Be succinct and focused.
Engage the Reader: Make the paper engaging by linking your research question to broader issues in the field or society.
By adhering to these guidelines, authors can ensure their research is presented in a professional, transparent, and rigorous manner, enhancing its chances of successful publication.