Phase 4 - Style and Formatting

Journal articles need to be formatted in the journal’s template and use Chicago Manual of Style (CMS) Author-Date (18th ed.) rules for references and in-text citations.


Your manuscript will need to meet the following requirements to move into Copy Editing

Style: your references and citations must follow the Eighteenth Edition of the Chicago Manual of Style Author-Date. No other styles are allowed. (see download button)

Formatting: your manuscript must be in the CGRN Article Template (see button below). Figures and tables must fit the guidelines, and you will be asked to review statements regarding image permissions, informed consent, and conflicts of interest. All authors must have a CGScholar profile/account before this phase can be completed.

Please note that no content updates to the manuscript can be made in this phase.

Frequently Asked Questions

Style:

Can I use a different style guide?

No. All manuscripts must follow the Chicago Manual of Style, Author-Date (18th Edition).

Can I use Notes and Bibliography format?

No. The Author-Date system is required for all citations and references.

Can I use automated citation tools?

Avoid them. Many produce errors and interfere with the CGRN formatting template.

What belongs in my reference list?

Every in-text citation must have a matching reference, and vice versa.

How should I format non-English references?

Provide an English translation in square brackets following the original title.

Do I need to cite figures and tables?

Yes, if they were not created by you. Always confirm that permissions or fair-use rights apply.


Formatting:

How do I apply the journal template?

Copy and paste your text into the CGRN Article Template and use the built-in Word Styles.

What are the requirements for tables and figures?

Maximum width is 5.4 inches. Landscape tables are not accepted. Images must be clear and in focus.

Do I need an “Informed Consent” section?

Yes, if your research involved human or animal participants. Photos of participants require explicit permission or face anonymization.

How do my co-authors create CGScholar profiles?

Authors and co-authors can create their CGScholar profile using the following link: https://cgscholar.com/sign-up

Can I add more information to “About the Authors”?

No. Please only include the requested details. Additional background can be added to your CGScholar profile.