Match the article to the contribution
An original study reports research conducted by the authors; a review synthesizes existing work; a conceptual or theoretical paper develops an argument. A case report or case study needs an explanation of why the specific case is informative. Do not relabel work merely to bypass requirements.
Check special formats before drafting
Methods papers, protocols, registered reports, commentaries and policy analyses can have specific expectations and submission stages. Read the live instructions and examples from the journal. A registered-report pathway, for instance, should not be assumed to accept a completed study at any stage.
Disclose earlier versions and related outputs
Conference extensions, thesis-derived articles and preprint-based submissions require checking the target policy and explaining relevant overlap. Identify what is new and cite related work. Do not present the same findings as independent studies.
Build the submission package for that category
Use the correct word count, abstract structure, reporting checklist and supporting files. A mismatch can delay screening even when the topic fits. If the category is genuinely uncertain and the journal allows enquiries, ask a concise question before preparing the full package.