ACS Author Lab is an online training course that empowers authors to prepare and submit strong manuscripts, avoiding errors that could lead to delays in the publication process. This course has been developed by ACS Editors and ACS Publications staff to help authors identify key considerations for each step of publishing a manuscript, including selecting […]
ACS Author Lab is an online training course that empowers authors to prepare and submit strong manuscripts, avoiding errors that could lead to delays in the publication process.
This course has been developed by ACS Editors and ACS Publications staff to help authors identify key considerations for each step of publishing a manuscript, including selecting the most appropriate journal and highlighting the significance of the research.
The course consists of seven interactive, self-paced modules, each taking approximately 15-20 minutes to complete. The modules contain narrated presentations, brief videos, feedback from ACS journal editors, real-world examples from published articles, and knowledge checks that highlight key information. Checklists are available for download, providing continued access to valuable and relevant tips and tricks.
The topics covered by ACS Author Lab include:
Module 1 – Select the Right Journal
How to evaluate journal quality and goals, matching them to your manuscript’s audience so you submit to the right journal the first time.
Module 2 – Showcase the Significance of Your Work
Tips for crafting a strong title and abstract, plus how to use active, concise language to ensure that your manuscript appeals to readers (including your first readers – the editors and reviewers).
Module 3 – Effectively Describe Your Research
How to write a detailed outline you can turn into a strong manuscript that clearly and thoroughly conveys your key research data and important findings.
Module 4 – Create Publication-Ready Visuals
The best visual elements for different types of data, with best practices for how to generate figures, tables, and Table of Contents graphics.
Module 5 – Finalize Your Manuscript and Prepare for Submission
All the finishing touches that will get your manuscript ready for the journal, plus other elements such as the cover letter that you’ll need when you submit.
Module 6 – Navigate the Revision Process
Common reasons that manuscripts are rejected and how to avoid them, with guidance on how to effectively respond to feedback from reviewers and editors.
Module 7 – Adhere to Ethical Guidelines
Guidance for selecting the final author list, understanding licenses and permissions, and avoiding unethical behavior such as plagiarism and improper image manipulation.
Graduates of ACS Author Lab receive a certificate of completion that can be shared with your network.
At launch, one module will be freely available to anyone who registers for the course, with the remaining modules available to anyone with institutional access to the ACS Guide for Scholarly Communication or for a small fee (ACS members will receive a discount).
Visit ACS Author Lab to learn more about the course, which will be launching this fall!