Keystone Journal
of Undergraduate Research
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Manuscript Format
Brief Instructions
Papers should conform to the documentation format provided in the Instructions to Authors (i.e. citing in-text references and formatting reference section) guide. The following is a basic guide for structuring the manuscript outline depending upon the discipline and aim of the project.
Research Manuscript - This model is generally applicable to studies where the researcher is collecting their own data. It is typically used by the natural sciences, psychology, health sciences and some social sciences. Although specialization areas vary, the research manuscript should conform to the following:
- Abstract - Summarizes all major parts of the manuscript but emphasizes the results. The abstract should be no more than 300 words in length, and be presented as a single paragraph with no imbedded headings
- Introduction - Describe the problem, review the literature, and state the objectives and hypotheses of the research.
- Method - Describe the research design, data collection procedure, and approach to data analyses.
- Results - Reports the findings. This section typically includes figures and tables that summarize the data.
- Discussion - Relate the significance of the findings to the research objectives and to the exiting literature. Many authors may also provide suggestions for future research efforts.
- References - Only include citations mentioned in the manuscript.
Research Paper - This type of paper does not require the collection of original data by the author but it should address a problem or issue that will supplement or expand the literature in the field. Although the disciplines may vary, the standard format of the body of the paper should include:
- Abstract - Same as above.
- Introduction - Justify the importance of the topic, issue, or position and describe the objectives of the paper.
- Discussion - Present documentation as it relates to the topic and use that documentation to support the thesis and draw conclusions. Often there is not a heading titled "Discussion" but this section is divided into sub sections.
- Summary - Reiterates the topic, issue, or position, provides recommendations, or states conclusions.
- References - Only include citations mentioned in the paper.
For detailed instructions on formatting (margins, fonts, headings, diagrams, pictures, tables and chart formats, etc.), please see Instructions to Authors.
Grammar, Spelling and use of Scientific Terms and Jargon
Papers with multiple spelling and grammatical errors will be returned without further review. You must have your advisor or faculty mentor read and edit your paper before it can be submitted. The use of jargon is strongly discouraged. If it is used, the terms must be clearly defined in the text. You may use abbreviations but they must be written out on their first use.
Copyright
This journal is published under the Creative Commons license and the lead author retains the copyright. Papers that have been previously published in another journal or papers that you intend to submit to another journal are not eligible for publication here. The author is responsible for ensuring that no duplication of papers exists.