IJSCI · ISSN 3049-0251 · Author resources
Research Paper Format and Manuscript Preparation Guide
A well-prepared manuscript is easier to review and less likely to be returned for formatting problems. This guide explains the standard sections of a research paper, how to write each one and what to check before you press submit. It is general advice; always follow the journal’s current requirements.
Use the journal template and guidelines first
Download the official IJSCI article template and write directly into it, rather than reformatting at the end. Then read the author guidelines for length, language and reference requirements.
This page does not replace those documents. If anything here differs from the current guidelines, the guidelines win.
The standard sections of a research paper
| Section | What it should do |
|---|---|
| Title | Describe the topic and method in a precise, searchable phrase. |
| Abstract | Summarise the problem, method, main result and conclusion in a single paragraph. |
| Keywords | Give four to six terms a reader would actually search. |
| Introduction | State the problem, what is already known, the gap and your contribution. |
| Methodology | Describe the work in enough detail for another researcher to repeat it. |
| Results and discussion | Present findings, then interpret them and compare with earlier work. |
| Conclusion | State what was shown, its limits and what should happen next. |
| References | List every source cited, in one consistent style. |
How to write a strong abstract
The abstract is read first and often read alone, so it must stand by itself. Write it last, after the paper is complete.
- Open with the problem, not with background about the field.
- State the method in one sentence.
- Report the most important result with its key figure or finding.
- End with the conclusion or implication.
- Avoid citations, abbreviations that are not defined and claims the paper does not support.
Figures, tables and equations
Every figure and table should be cited in the text, numbered in order and understandable from its caption. Use legible fonts, labelled axes with units and consistent notation. Check that images are sharp enough to read at the size they will appear.
References and originality
Cite every idea, figure and dataset that is not yours, and use one reference style throughout. Check each entry against its source for names, years and page numbers. Read the journal’s plagiarism policy and the research and publication ethics statement so you know what is expected before you submit.
Pre-submission checklist
- The manuscript follows the journal template.
- The abstract and keywords are complete and consistent with the paper.
- All figures, tables and equations are numbered and cited.
- Every in-text citation appears in the reference list, and the reverse.
- All authors are named correctly with affiliations and a corresponding email.
- The text has been proofread for language and units.
- You have the copyright form and any other document the journal requires.
When you are ready, submit your paper online and keep the paper ID that you receive.
Frequently asked questions
Does IJSCI provide a manuscript template?
Yes. A Word article template can be downloaded from the For Authors menu of the IJSCI website.
What should an abstract include?
The problem, the method, the main result and the conclusion, written so that it can be understood without reading the full paper.
Where can I find the formatting and reference requirements?
In the IJSCI author guidelines. Check them before you submit, because they are the authority on current requirements.
Do I need a copyright form?
IJSCI provides a copyright form for authors. Follow the instructions given for your manuscript about when and how to submit it.
Related author guides
Discuss your submission with the editorial office
If you have a question about scope, manuscript requirements or publication fees, email editor@ijsci.com. Include your paper ID if you have already submitted.
