Submission Readiness Checklist
18 checks across five areas before you hit submit. Everything stays in your browser — nothing is sent to us — and your progress is saved for when you come back.
Still have unchecked boxes?
Our editors handle language, references and journal formatting so you can tick them all.
What to check before you submit a manuscript
Why use a submission checklist?
Most journals return or reject submissions that are missing something simple: an ethics statement, a data availability statement, figures in the wrong format, or a cover letter addressed to the wrong journal. These are easy to fix before you submit and frustrating to fix after.
The checklist covers 18 checks in five areas: the manuscript itself, data and figures, references, ethics and compliance, and the submission package. Tick each item as you confirm it. Your progress is saved in your browser, so you can come back to it, and nothing is sent to us.
The checks that catch people out
The journal’s own guidelines. Word limits, abstract structure and reference style vary by journal, so check them for the journal you are submitting to, not the last one. Declarations. Most journals now require statements on funding, competing interests, author contributions, data availability and, increasingly, the use of AI tools. References. Every cited work should appear in the list, every listed work should be cited, and every DOI should be real; the Reference Verifier checks DOIs in seconds. Cover letter. Address the editor by name, say why the paper suits this journal, and state that it is not under review elsewhere.
When the language is the problem
If you are unsure about the English, deal with it before you submit rather than after a rejection. Run your abstract through the Desk Rejection Checker, or get a price for a human edit with the Instant Quote tool.
Frequently asked questions
What documents do I need to submit to a journal?
Usually the manuscript, a title page (sometimes separate for blind review), figures and tables as separate files if requested, a cover letter, and declarations on funding, competing interests, ethics approval and data availability. Check your journal’s author guidelines for its exact list.
Is my checklist progress saved?
Yes, in your own browser. Nothing is sent to our server, so it is private, but it will not follow you to another device or browser.
Do journals ask about AI use?
Many now do. Policies differ, but most require you to disclose any use of AI tools in writing or analysis, and do not allow AI tools to be listed as authors. Check your journal’s policy before you submit.