Submissions

Author Guidelines

1. Scope of the Journal

Test Journal SFU Library Digital Publishing publishes original research, theoretical papers, and critical reviews in all areas of the social sciences, including but not limited to:

• Anthropology
• Sociology
• Psychology
• Political Science
• Economics
• Human Geography
• Social Work
• Education

We welcome submissions that contribute to the advancement of knowledge in these disciplines, with an emphasis on both theoretical and applied perspectives.

2. Types of Articles

We accept the following types of manuscripts:

• Original Research Articles: Empirical studies that contribute new knowledge or perspectives to the field.
• Theoretical Papers: Articles that present novel frameworks, theories, or conceptual models.
• Review Articles: Systematic or narrative reviews that summarize the current state of research in a specific area.
• Short Communications: Brief reports of emerging findings or innovative methodologies.
• Commentaries: Opinion pieces that engage with contemporary debates in the social sciences.
• Special Issues: Call for papers on specific themes or topics (announced periodically on our website).

3. Manuscript Preparation

3.1 General Format

• Manuscripts must be submitted in Microsoft Word (.doc or .docx format).
• Use Times New Roman, font size 12, and double-spacing throughout the document.
• Margins should be 1 inch (2.5 cm) on all sides.
• The manuscript should include the following sections in order:
  • Title Page: The title of the manuscript, author(s) full name(s), institutional affiliation(s), corresponding author's email address, and ORCID ID (if available).
  • Abstract: A brief (150-250 words) summary of the key points of the manuscript, including the main research question, methodology, and findings.
  • Keywords: 3-5 keywords that describe the topic of the paper.
  • Main Body: The body of the paper should include an introduction, literature review, methodology, results, discussion, and conclusion.
  • References: List all references cited in the manuscript (see citation style below).
  • Acknowledgments (if applicable): Include any financial or material support, and acknowledgment of any contributions from others not listed as authors.
  • Appendices (if applicable): Detailed supplementary information, such as survey instruments, data tables, or extended methodological explanations.

3.2 Tables and Figures

• Tables and figures should be placed in the manuscript where they are first referenced.
• Each table and figure should have a clear, descriptive title.
• Tables should be formatted using Word’s table feature, and figures should be submitted in high resolution (at least 300 dpi).
• Ensure that all tables and figures are referenced in the text.

4. Citation and Referencing Style

All submissions must use the APA 7th Edition referencing style for in-text citations and the reference list. A detailed guide to APA style can be found at https://apastyle.apa.org/.

In-text citation examples:

• One author: (Smith, 2020)
• Two authors: (Smith & Jones, 2020)
• Three or more authors: (Smith et al., 2020)

Reference list example:

• Book:
  Smith, J. (2020). Social research methods (2nd ed.). Oxford University Press.
• Journal article:
  Jones, M. (2020). Understanding the dynamics of urban migration. Journal of Urban Studies, 45(3), 234-250. https://doi.org/10.xxxx/jus.2020.123456

5. Peer Review Process

All submitted manuscripts will undergo a double-blind peer review process. Both the authors and reviewers will remain anonymous to each other throughout the review process. Manuscripts are evaluated based on originality, relevance, clarity, and quality of research. The editorial team will notify authors of the review outcomes within 6-8 weeks of submission.

Decisions may include:

• Accepted: The manuscript is accepted without any further changes.
• Minor Revisions: The manuscript is acceptable, but requires minor revisions before it can be accepted for publication.
• Major Revisions: The manuscript requires significant revisions before it can be reconsidered for publication.
• Rejected: The manuscript is not suitable for publication in the journal.

6. Ethical Considerations

By submitting to [Journal Name], authors affirm that:

• The research complies with ethical guidelines for the treatment of human participants, animals, and sensitive data.
• All appropriate ethical approvals have been obtained (e.g., Institutional Review Board or Ethics Committee).
• Authors have disclosed any potential conflicts of interest related to the research or manuscript.
• All co-authors have approved the manuscript and agreed to its submission.

Plagiarism will not be tolerated. Manuscripts found to contain plagiarized material may be rejected or withdrawn, and authors may be subject to penalties.

Please ensure your files are anonymized before uploading by following the steps provided.