Author Guidelines

Author Guidelines

These guidelines are intended to assist authors in preparing manuscripts for submission to Digital Social Sciences. Adherence to these requirements facilitates efficient editorial handling and supports the journal's commitment to high-quality, ethically conducted, and impactful social science research.

Submission Requirements

Manuscripts are accepted on a rolling basis throughout the year. Submissions must be written in English and must represent original work that has not been published previously and is not under consideration elsewhere.

By submitting a manuscript, authors confirm that:

  • The work is original and free from plagiarism.
  • All listed authors have made substantial contributions to the manuscript.
  • All authors have reviewed and approved the final version.
  • The manuscript is not simultaneously submitted to another journal.

All submissions must be made through the journal's online submission system. New users are required to register an account before submitting a manuscript.

Manuscript Preparation

Manuscripts should be submitted as Microsoft Word documents (.doc or .docx). The editorial office will apply the journal's publication template after acceptance. References and in-text citations must follow the Chicago Author–Date citation style.

1. Title

The title should be concise, informative, and accurately reflect the content of the manuscript. Avoid unnecessary abbreviations and ensure that the title clearly communicates the focus of the study.

2. Author Information

Provide the full names of all authors together with their institutional affiliations. Affiliations should include the department, institution, and country. Identify the corresponding author and provide a valid email address.

3. Abstract

The abstract should summarize the purpose, methodology, key findings, and significance of the study. It should be written in English and should not exceed 500 words. References and citations should not be included in the abstract.

4. Keywords

Include at least five keywords that accurately represent the subject matter of the manuscript.

5. Introduction

The introduction should establish the background and significance of the study, identify the research problem, review relevant literature, highlight existing gaps in knowledge, and clearly state the study objectives or research questions.

6. Methods

Authors should provide sufficient detail regarding the research design, data collection procedures, sampling methods, instruments, analytical techniques, and measures taken to ensure validity and reliability. The methodology should be described clearly enough to allow replication where appropriate.

7. Results and Discussion

This section should present the findings clearly and interpret their significance. Authors should discuss how the results address the research questions, compare findings with existing literature, acknowledge limitations, and explain the theoretical or practical implications of the study.

8. Tables and Figures

Tables and figures should be numbered consecutively and accompanied by clear, self-explanatory titles or captions. Visual materials should enhance understanding of the research and avoid duplication of information already presented in the text.

9. Conclusion

The conclusion should summarize the main findings, highlight the contribution of the study, and discuss its broader implications. New data, arguments, or evidence should not be introduced in this section.

10. References

References must be listed alphabetically by the surname of the first author and formatted according to the Chicago Author–Date style. Authors are encouraged to cite relevant datasets, software, and other research outputs where applicable.

Examples of In-Text Citations

  • (Woodward 1987)
  • (Schuman and Scott 1987)

Ethical Requirements

Authors must disclose any conflicts of interest and identify sources of funding where applicable. Research involving human participants or animals must comply with relevant ethical standards and include evidence of ethical approval and informed consent where required.

Pre-Submission Checklist

Before submitting your manuscript, please ensure that:

  • The manuscript is original and not under review elsewhere.
  • All authors have approved the submission.
  • The manuscript is submitted as a Word document.
  • The title, abstract, keywords, and all required sections are included.
  • References follow the Chicago Author–Date citation style.
  • Conflicts of interest and funding sources are disclosed.
  • Ethical approval and informed consent statements are included where applicable.
  • Language, grammar, and formatting have been carefully reviewed.

Following these guidelines will help ensure a smooth review process and facilitate timely consideration of your submission by Digital Social Sciences.