Author Guidelines
At this time, the journal exclusively features works developed during the Create-A-Thon at ComSciConCAN, a national science communication conference for Canadian graduate students. Authors are expected to ensure that all scientific content presented in their submission is accurate, up-to-date, and supported by credible sources. Authors are responsible for verifying the correctness of the scientific information and for appropriately citing relevant literature where applicable.
We welcome a variety of formats, including but not limited to written, visual, audio, and multimedia pieces that communicate science, research, and knowledge to non-specialist audiences. The journal values creativity, accessibility, and diverse perspectives, and encourages innovative approaches that reflect the dynamic nature of science communication.
While our journal is open to receiving pieces in other languages, authors must provide either a copy of the piece with an English translation, English subtitles, or an English transcript.
Abstract & Title Page
Each submission must include an accompanying Microsoft Word document (.docx) with
- Title of the piece
- Full names of all the authors
- Contact information for the corresponding author
- An abstract of no more than 150 words concisely summarizing its content and purpose
- Up to five keywords to aid indexing and discoverability.
Formatting for Written Submissions
Please follow the formatting requirements outlined below. If a science communication piece requires formatting that differs from these guidelines, an exemption may be requested by contacting the journal (contactCJSC[at]gmail[dot]com).
- Use a 12-point sans serif font (e.g., Arial or Calibri).
- Apply 1.5 line spacing throughout the document.
- Maintain standard page margins (2.54 cm on all sides).
- Submissions must not exceed 1,000 words.
- Upload the file as a Microsoft Word document (.docx)
Formatting for Audio/Video Submissions
Audio submissions should be submitted in .mp3 format, while video submissions may be submitted in either .mp4 or .avi format. All audio and video pieces must be between 2 to 5 minutes in length.
Formatting for Infographics
Infographics should be submitted in .tiff, .png, or .pdf formats with a minimum of 300 dpi, preferably 600 dpi for complex illustrations/images.
References
References are encouraged and should be included where appropriate. All references must be formatted according to Vancouver style. Authors may use referencing tools such as RefMe, Zotero, and Mendeley.
We recommend including references at the end of written submissions. For video, audio, or infographic submissions, authors may upload a separate file with references.
Accessibility considerations
To help ensure content is accessible to a wide audience, we require the inclusion of subtitles and transcripts for all video and audio submissions, as well as alt-text for any images used. When incorporating colour, please consider using colourblind-friendly palettes to improve readability for all viewers.
Media-hosting platforms
All accepted audio and video submissions are hosted by The Canadian Journal of Science Communication on the ComSciConCAN Internet Archive to ensure long-term accessibility and preservation.
Point-by-Point Response
As part of your submission, we kindly ask that you include a point-by-point response to all reviewer comments. This document should clearly outline how you have addressed each concern raised during peer review. This response document should be uploaded as a separate PDF file alongside your revised submission.