How to Submit a Journal Article

Research the journal you plan to submit articles to.

One of the most important things you should do before submitting an article to a journal is read a few issues of the journal so you can get a good idea of what kind of articles it features. You can visit your public library or bookstore to read what main topics have already been covered. This also keeps you from submitting article ideas that are unoriginal or overresearched.

Instructions

1. Write on unique topics. Read what other contributors have submitted to the journal on this subject and use that information to find new and original research so that your article will be fresh and interesting. Also, get inspiration for topics by reading magazines that relate to your field of expertise. For example, if you write anthropology articles, read magazines like National Geographic to develop new research ideas.

2. Send query letters to journal editors. Go to WritersMarket.com to get the contact information of the editors so you'll have the right mailing addresses when you write the letters. In the letters, state the nature of your article, why this article is a good fit for the journal's overall mission, and what qualifications you have for writing the article. When you mail the query letter, also send a self-addressed, stamped envelope so the editor can send you a reply regarding your article idea.

3. Pay attention to proper formatting in your manuscript. Visit the journal's "submission guidelines" page and look at the editor's guidelines for manuscript preparation. If the editor wants writers to use Arial font but your manuscript is written in Times New Roman, make the necessary changes before sending the article.

References

• Georgetown Law Journal: Submissions
• Wheaton College: Recommendations for Submitting Journal Articles