liminfoManuscript Format Reference
Free reference guide: Manuscript Format Reference
About Manuscript Format Reference
This Manuscript Format Reference is a searchable guide for academic paper writing, organized into eight sections: Structure, Abstract, Introduction, Methods, Results, Discussion, References, and Submission. Each entry provides formatting rules, writing tips, and real-world examples used in peer-reviewed journals.
The reference covers the complete IMRaD framework including title page formatting, running heads, keywords, CRediT author contributions, structured and unstructured abstracts (150-300 words), funnel-shaped introductions, hypothesis statements, research gap identification, and literature citation techniques.
It also details methods section components (participants, study design, instruments with reliability, procedures, ethics approval), APA-style statistical reporting (F-values, p-values, effect sizes), table and figure formatting rules, discussion structure, reference management with DOI, and journal submission requirements including cover letters, conflict of interest declarations, and preregistration.
Key Features
- Complete IMRaD structure guide with title page, running head, keywords, and author contributions
- Abstract writing rules: structured vs. unstructured, word limits, tense usage, and formatting tips
- Introduction section: funnel structure, purpose statements, hypotheses, literature review, and research gaps
- Methods section: participants, study design, instruments with Cronbach alpha, procedures, and IRB ethics approval
- Results reporting: APA statistical format, effect sizes, table 3-line rule, figure resolution requirements
- Discussion structure: findings summary, prior study comparison, limitations, and future research suggestions
- Reference management: APA 7th Edition format, DOI inclusion, self-citation limits, and recency guidelines
- Journal submission checklist: cover letters, author order conventions, data sharing, and preregistration
Frequently Asked Questions
What sections does this manuscript format reference cover?
It covers eight sections: Structure (IMRaD, title page, running head, keywords, CRediT), Abstract (structured/unstructured, length, tense), Introduction (funnel structure, purpose, hypotheses, gaps), Methods (participants, design, instruments, procedure, ethics), Results (reporting order, APA statistics, tables, figures), Discussion (interpretation, comparison, limitations, future research), References (APA format, DOI, tools), and Submission (cover letter, author order, conflicts, preregistration).
What is IMRaD structure in academic writing?
IMRaD stands for Introduction, Methods, Results, and Discussion. It is the standard organizational framework for scientific research papers. The full sequence is: Title Page, Abstract, Introduction, Methods, Results, Discussion, References. Most peer-reviewed journals require this structure.
How long should an academic abstract be?
Typically 150-300 words, with 250 words as the most common upper limit. Abstracts can be structured (with labeled sections: Objective, Methods, Results, Conclusion) or unstructured (single paragraph). Use past tense for objectives and methods, present tense for conclusions. Avoid abbreviations and citations.
How do I report statistics in APA format?
APA format requires specific notation: F(2, 197) = 4.52, p = .012, partial eta-squared = .04. Always report effect sizes alongside significance values, such as Cohen's d = 0.65, 95% CI [0.32, 0.98]. Use the exact p-value rather than inequalities when possible.
What are the rules for tables and figures in academic papers?
Tables follow the three-line rule (top border, header bottom border, table bottom border) with no vertical lines. Figures require 300+ dpi resolution in TIFF, EPS, or PDF format with 8-12pt sans-serif font labels. Both must be numbered sequentially and referenced in the text.
What should a cover letter to a journal editor include?
A cover letter should address the editor by name, state the manuscript title, explain the study topic and significance, describe why it fits the journal readership, confirm the work is original and not submitted elsewhere, and list any conflicts of interest. Keep it concise at one page.
What is CRediT author contribution taxonomy?
CRediT (Contributor Roles Taxonomy) is a standardized system for describing each author's specific contributions. Roles include Conceptualization, Methodology, Data Curation, Formal Analysis, Writing (Original Draft), Writing (Review & Editing), Visualization, Supervision, and Funding Acquisition.
Is this manuscript format reference free?
Yes, it is completely free with no account required. All content is accessible in your browser with instant search and category filtering. It works on desktop, tablet, and mobile devices with dark mode support.