Extension Publications Manual: Procedure for Peer-Reviewed Manuscripts

The use of word processing and desktop publishing software has allowed each Extension author to create documents that look quite professional, including a variety of photographs, graphic elements and images. However, this creates a problem when the material is submitted to a committee for peer review.

It is very difficult, and in some cases impossible, to make editorial changes and suggestions on a document that has already been formatted—often single-spaced, in columns and with graphics inserted into the copy. The reviewers have no room to write comments and questions.

An additional problem: In some cases, documents submitted for peer review have already had design/layout and illustrations added. When peer review is completed, and authors make changes based on reviewers’ comments, the layout and perhaps the images must also be revised, creating additional work (and expense) for the author, the editor and the designer. Accordingly, all authors submitting materials for peer review should prepare their manuscripts in the following manner:

  1. Text should be double-spaced.
  2. Text should not be set in columns, unless required by tables included in the manuscript.
  3. Indicate in the text where photos and illustrations should be placed in relation to text, but do not insert and wrap text around them. Images should be sent either separately or at the end of the document, with figure numbers/captions noted for each.
  4. Prepare tables as you wish them to look, but please use no smaller than 8-point type.
  5. Place only one space after a period.
  6. Do not type text in all caps. Use caps and lowercase instead.
  7. The preferred style used by UTIA is Associated Press. Authors may purchase the current AP Stylebook at the UT bookstore to use as a reference.