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VIII. Useful Checklists

Use these checklists as a reminder of important steps. Double-check your manuscript to be sure you are meeting the society’s style and format requirements. Please keep all formatting to a minimum. Be certain that all in-text references are in the references section and that all items in the references section are used in the text. This is the major problem and the most costly of time and funds in the entire copyediting process.

A. Manuscript Sections

Manuscript, including

    • Cover page (first page)
    • Title of article (following page)
    • Author name(s)
    • Abstract of article
    • Keywords
    • Body text with headings
    • Acknowledgments (optional)
    • References
    • Appendix (strongly discouraged and only when absolutely necessary)
    • Figure captions
    • Tables (optional)
    • Compliance with ethics standards
    • Conflict of interest statement

B. Cover-Page Requirements

    • Name(s)
    • Address(es)
    • Work and home telephone numbers
    • E-mail address

C. Sending Figures

    • Include any needed signed permissions with the final manuscript. Original artwork from other copyrighted works or from specific collections cannot be published without initially placing on file with the editorial office, copies of all requisite reproduction permissions.

D. Securing Permissions

    • Statement describing the item being used
    • Signature and title of the person giving permission (e-mail acceptable)
    • Title of the article in which it will be used
    • Title of the specific publication in which the article is to be published

E. Manuscript Requirements

    • Do not format the text so that it looks like the journal
    • Use normal style (single spaced) and a standard font, Times New Roman 12 pt. is preferred, throughout
    • Use one space between all sentences
    • Indent first lines of all paragraphs 5 in. Use no tabs except in tables and references
    • Use American spelling for any words in English, but use appropriate diacritical marks
    • Use a comma in a series of three or more items and place all commas and periods inside final quotation marks
    • Use formal, professional language––no profanity or contractions
    • Check references for completeness
    • Crosscheck each reference, table, and figure in the text

F. Final Submission

    • Run spell-check one last time
    • Include all the original figures (as separate files) with the submitted manuscript
    • Enclose all permissions for figures and personal communications
    • Include your current home phone and especially your e-mail address with your manuscript
    • Save an electronic and hard copy of the final version for your own records and later references

And Remember

    • Respond to all editorial queries in a timely manner
    • Return proof-pages files with changes or indicate “no changes” within 72 hours of e-mail notification