author guidelines
phrasePronunciation: /ˈɔːθər ˈɡaɪdlaɪnz/
Formal instructions provided by publishers outlining submission requirements, formatting standards, and editorial procedures for prospective authors.
Full Definition
Comprehensive documentation that specifies the technical, stylistic, and procedural requirements authors must follow when submitting manuscripts to academic journals or publishers. These guidelines typically include formatting specifications, citation styles, word limits, submission procedures, and ethical requirements. They serve as the primary reference document for authors to ensure their submissions meet publication standards and editorial expectations.
Plain English
The rules and instructions that tell writers how to format and submit their work to academic journals or publishers.
In Editorial Context
Essential editorial tools that establish consistency standards, streamline the submission process, and communicate publisher expectations to maintain quality control in academic publishing workflows.
Etymology & History
Emerged as academic publishing became more standardized and submission volumes increased, requiring systematic approaches to manuscript processing.
Originally simple style sheets, evolved into comprehensive digital documents covering ethical, technical, and procedural requirements.
Usage
"The academic library's institutional repository requires faculty to review the author guidelines before submitting their research manuscripts to ensure compliance with open access policies."
Usage note: Always plural form; refers to the complete set of instructions rather than individual rules.
Context: academic publishing, journal management, editorial workflows
Region: international
Also known as
Don't confuse with
Style guides focus on writing conventions while author guidelines encompass broader submission requirements including technical and procedural aspects.