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Submission Guidelines | American Marketing Association Journals

All manuscripts must be submitted online through the ScholarOne manuscript submission sites: 

Journal of Marketing  

Journal of Marketing Research  

Journal of Public Policy & Marketing  

Journal of International Marketing  

Journal of Interactive Marketing  

Submissions that arrive via mail or email will not be processed for review. 

First-time authors will be required to create a ScholarOne user account in order to proceed. Each submission must adhere to the guidelines set forth on this page; those that do not follow the guidelines will be returned to the author for correction. Review these videos for advice on how to get published .  

If you have any questions, please contact us at [email protected] for Journal of Marketing , [email protected] for Journal of Marketing Research , [email protected] for Journal of Public Policy & Marketing , [email protected] for Journal of International Marketing , or [email protected] for Journal of Interactive Marketing . 

Review AMA Editorial Policies and Procedures before submitting your manuscript.

If you are submitting to Journal of Marketing or Journal of Marketing Research , review Journal of Marketing ‘s Policy for Research Transparency or Journal of Marketing Research ‘s Policy for Research Transparency .

FORMATTING BASICS    |   MANUSCRIPT ORGANIZATION    |   AUTHOR ANONYMITY    |   PLAGIARISM CHECK   |   READABILITY AND LANGUAGE GUIDELINES   |   MANUSCRIPT COMPONENTS    |   ACCEPTED MANUSCRIPT GUIDELINES  

Formatting Basics

• Microsoft Word templates are now available for use in preparing manuscripts for all AMA journals. This downloadable zip file contains (1) a main document template, (2) a Web Appendix template, (3) a sample main document PDF, and (4) a sample Web Appendix PDF.
• LaTeX style files are available for use in preparing manuscripts for all AMA journals. This downloadable zip file contains (1) a journal template style file, JMR_template.tex, for submission of papers; (2) a BiBTeX style file, jmr.bst, to conform with AMA reference style; and (3) a BiBTex reference file, for references. The AMA thanks Sai Chand Chintala of Cornell University for preparing these files. 
• Font (including references): 12-point Times New Roman (or 12-point LaTeX font) 
• Text: Double-spaced (tables and references may be single-spaced) 
• Page Layout: 1-inch margins on all sides with no page numbers, line numbers, or header/footer 
• Page Maximum: 50 pages, properly formatted and inclusive of title, abstract, keywords, text, footnotes, references, tables, figures, and print appendices (web appendices do not count toward the page limit). The 50-page maximum applies to all stages of the review process. 

Manuscript Organization

To facilitate the double-anonymized peer-review process, each submission should be broken into at least two separate files : (1) title page and (2) main document. If your manuscript includes a Web Appendix, please upload it as a separate PDF. Identifying information should not appear anywhere within the main document or Web Appendix files (see Author Anonymity ). 

FILE 1: Title Page  

• Title 
• Author(s) name, title, institution, address, telephone number, and email address 
• Author(s) note 
• Acknowledgment 
• Financial disclosure, if applicable 

FILE 2: Main Document

• Abstract 
• Keywords 

Page 2 and on, with each new element beginning on its own page: 

• Main text (including any tables, figures, and footnotes) 
• References 
• Appendices, if any

The purpose of the JPP&M Policy Contribution Statement is to allow authors to highlight the public policy relevance of the submitted manuscript. In the statement, the authors are asked to succinctly articulate (1) the policy conversation that the submission initiates or to which it seeks to contribute, (2) how the manuscript moves our understanding beyond existing marketing and public policy literature, and (3) what specific policy stakeholders might be impacted by the results of the inquiry and how. The Policy Contribution Statement should be submitted as part of the initial submission of a paper and will be shared with the review team. It should not exceed 300 words. The Policy Contribution Statement does not count toward the 50-page limit.

(Optional) FILE 3: Web Appendix (see Web Appendix format guidelines)

Please Note: No exceptions will be made for the items above. Submissions that do not follow the above guidelines will be returned for correction before they can be considered in the review process.

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Author Anonymity

Your manuscript should not contain any identifying information about the authors or their universities. When referring to the location of a data collection effort, authors should only make general references to places such as a “large public university” or a “Fortune 500 company.” There is no need to disclose the geographic location of any data collection sites. Once the review process has been completed, these details will be added to the paper. Authors should cite any of their own relevant work. However, if there are anonymity concerns, authors should reach out the Editor(s) in Chief with questions.

Plagiarism Check

The AMA editorial office uses iThenticate to determine the level of plagiarism associated with a submitted manuscript. Like most journals, AMA journals view “self-plagiarism” (when authors use materials from their own published work without citation) as a form of plagiarism. Please review the guidelines available from the University of Wisconsin Writing Center and the Department of Health & Human Services Office of Research Integrity .

Readability and Language Guidelines

AMA journal manuscripts are judged not only on the depth and scope of the ideas presented and their contributions to the field but also on their clarity. Readers of AMA journals have varied backgrounds. Thus, the following guidelines should be followed: 

• Write in an interesting, readable manner with varied sentence structure, and use active voice. Use as little passive voice as possible. 
• Avoid using technical terms that few readers are likely to understand. If you use these terms, include definitions. Remember: The journal is designed to be read, not deciphered. 

Keep sentences short so the reader does not get lost before the end of a sentence. 

Copy Editing and Proofreading

It is important to convey your ideas in a clear and engaging manner. Weak writing can detract from your contribution in important ways. Therefore, it is essential that you proofread your manuscript carefully before submission and consider hiring a copy editor. Getting your colleagues’ input on content and communications is also helpful as they will raise issues that you may miss after working on the project for several years. It also helps to read papers published in the journal to get a sense of journal style. Once your revisions are complete, ensure that all comments among authors have been removed and that all tracked changes have been accepted or rejected. 

Inclusive Language

The AMA strives to ensure inclusive language in our journals, with the understanding that usage continues to evolve. In general, avoid gendered and biased language.  

• Use the inclusive singular “they” (rather than “he/she” or any other variation) for a hypothetical person/consumer. 
• The AMA prefers “race and ethnicity” rather than “race/ethnicity.” 
• It is now AMA style to provide full survey gender demographics in text. Example: “200 participants (51.2% female, 47.8% male, .8% nonbinary, .2% preferred not to state),” not “200 participants (51.2% female).”  
• Helpful resources on inclusive language are available from the American Psychological Association and the Conscious Style Guide , among many others.  

Use of Generative AI

If any content is AI-generated, it must be clearly identified in the main document (e.g., in the “Methods” section) and noted in the “Acknowledgments” section of the title page. AI bots, such as ChatGPT, should not be listed as an author. For more information, see Sage’s ChatGPT and Generative AI policy .

Manuscript Components

Title  .

The title should not exceed 25 words. 

Abstract   

The abstract is limited to 200 words and summarizes the key components of the manuscript, offering the reader a sample of the manuscript. The abstract should be written in third person. 

Keywords  

Include up to 8 primary keywords that best suit the topic of the manuscript; these do not necessarily need to match the “Topics/Methods” that are selected in ScholarOne upon submission. 

Main Text  

Please do not add any headers/footers on each page. Headings are text only (not numbered) and are formatted according to level. Do not number the pages of manuscripts upon submission because ScholarOne will add page and line numbers to the PDF that is created during the submission process. 

• PRIMARY HEADING: Centered, title-style capitalization (first letter of each word), and bold, with an extra return before and after. 
• SECONDARY HEADING: Flush left with title-style capitalization (first letter of each word) and in both boldface and italics. You must have at least two sections beginning with a secondary heading; if there is only one, the heading should be excluded. 
• TERTIARY HEADING: Left justified, with sentence-style capitalization (first word only), in italics. If only one tertiary heading is used, the heading should be excluded. Please note: We now prefer tertiary headings to be placed on their own line above the paragraph, rather than starting the paragraph text on the same line as the heading. 
• Do not use more than three levels of headings.
• Sections should not be numbered or referred to as “Section No.” in the text. 
• Do not label opening commentary as “Introduction.” Opening commentary should not carry a section heading. 

Mathematical Notation  

All technical and quantitative features must be carefully checked for precision.  

• Equations should be centered on the page.  
• If equations are numbered, type the number in parentheses flush with the right margin. 
• If equations are too wide to fit in a single column (please consult a printed issue of the journal), indicate appropriate breaks. 
• All equations, symbols, and letters that indicate variables should be in roman font—that is, do not use italics or bold. The exceptions are italic p to indicate probability, italic l (letter ell) when used as a variable (to avoid confusion with the number 1), and boldface matrices and vectors. 
• Numbered equations and models should be referred to in text as Equation 1, Model 1, etc., not “equation (1)” or any other variation. 
• Standard deviation should be abbreviated as SD, standard error as SE, and mean as M. 
• Do not place a zero before any decimal points (.97). 
• Leave one space on either side of operational signs and signs of relation (M = 4.32, F(1, 139) = 34.65, p < .01). 
• Do not use more than three decimal places when reporting decimal values. 
• Avoid using Word’s Equation Editor, MathType, or LaTeX number/variable formatting for simple in-line mathematical symbols (Greek letters, plus signs, numerals, etc.). Type these as regular text instead, using the “Symbol” function in Word when necessary. Use math mode or an equation editor only when necessary to convey the intended expression. 
• For any type of equation that involves more complex arrangement (e.g., overbars, variables that carry stacked super- and subscripts, summation or product symbols that carry subformulas), it is preferable to use MathType or LaTeX. 

References  

References begin on their own page and are listed in alphabetical order by the first author’s last name. Only references cited within the text are included. Use full first name, not just initials.  

For examples of reference list formatting, see Reference Examples . 

Each reference should be cited in the text by the author’s last name and year of publication enclosed in parentheses without punctuation: (Thorelli 1960), or if the author’s name is included in the text of the sentence: Thorelli (1960). If a particular page, section, or equation is cited, it should also be placed in the parentheses: (Thorelli 1960, p. 112) or (Thorelli 1960, Table 1). For citations of up to three authors, list all author names; for four or more authors, use the first author’s name followed by “et al.” (no italics). A series of citations should be listed in alphabetical order and separated by semicolons: (Donnelly 1961; Thorelli 1960; Welch 1981). 

Footnotes  

Footnotes are to be used sparingly and must be concise. Most articles contain no more than 10 footnotes, and each footnote should not exceed 40 words.  

Tables  

Tables should be placed within the text rather than at the end of the document. 

• Tables should be numbered consecutively in the order in which they are first mentioned in the text. 
• Tables should have titles that reflect the take-away. For example, “Factors That Impact Ad Recall” or “Inattention Can Increase Brand Switching” are more effective than “Study 1: Results.” 
• Designate units (e.g., %, $, n) in column headings. 
• Refer to tables in text by number (see Table 1). Avoid using “above” or “below.” 
• Asterisks or notes cued by lowercase superscript letters appear at the bottom of the table below the rule. Asterisks are used for p -values, and letters are used for data-specific information. Other descriptive information should be labeled as “Notes:” and placed after the letters. 
• Tables with text only should be treated in the same manner as tables with numbers (formatted as tables with rows, columns, and individual cells).  
• Make sure the necessary measures of statistical significance are reported with the table.  
• Do not insert tables in the Word file as pictures. All tables should be editable in Word. 

Figures  

Figures should be placed within the text rather than at the end of the document. 

Figures should be numbered consecutively in the order in which they are first mentioned in the text. The term “figure” refers to a variety of material, including line drawings, maps, charts, graphs, diagrams, photos, and screenshots, among others. 

Figures should have titles that reflect the take-away. For example, “Factors That Impact Ad Recall” or “Inattention Can Increase Brand Switching” are more effective than “Study 1: Results.” 

• Use Arial font in figures whenever possible.  
• For graphs, label both vertical and horizontal axes.  
• Axis labels in graphs should use “Headline-Style Capitalization.” 
• Legends in graphs should use “Sentence-style capitalization.” 
• All bar graphs should include error bars where applicable. 
• Place all calibration tick marks as well as the values outside of the axis lines. 
• Refer to figures in text by number (see Figure 1). Avoid using “above” or “below.” 
• The cost of color printing is borne by the authors. If you do not intend to pay for color printing for a figure that contains color, then it will automatically appear in grayscale in print and in color online.  
• If you submit artwork in color and do not intend to pay for color printing, please make sure that the colors you use will work well when converted to grayscale, and avoid referring to color in the text (e.g., avoid “the red line in Figure 1”). Use contrasting colors with different tones (i.e., dark blue and dark red will convert into almost identical shades of gray). Don’t use light shades or colors such as yellow against a light background.  
• When using color in figures, avoid using color combinations that could be difficult for people with color vision deficiency to distinguish, especially red-green and blue-purple. Many apps are available online (search for “colorblindness simulator” or similar terms) to provide guidance on likely issues. Use symbols, words, shading, etc. instead of color to distinguish parts of a figure when needed. Avoid wording such as “the red line in Figure 1.”  
• When preparing grayscale figures, use gray levels between 20% and 80%, with at least 20% difference between the levels of gray. Whenever possible, avoid using patterns of hatching instead of grays to differentiate between areas of a figure. Grayscale files should not contain any color objects. 
• When reporting the results from an experiment in a figure: 
• Use the full scale range on the y-axis (e.g., 1–7). 
• Include error bars and specify in the figure notes what they represent (e.g., ±1 SE). 
• Include the means. 
• Include significance levels with asterisks. 
• Upon acceptance: Submit original Excel or PowerPoint files for all figures, not just a graphic pasted into Excel, PowerPoint, or Word. This is so the production staff can edit the content. We also accept PDF, EPS, or PostScript files made from the application that created the original figure if it was not created in Word or PowerPoint. Specifically, please export (rather than save) the file from the original application. Avoid bitmap or TIFF files. However, when these files must be used—as in photographs or screenshots—submit print-quality graphics. For a photograph or screenshot, this requires a resolution of at least 300 ppi/dpi. For a line drawing or chart, the resolution should be at least 800 ppi/dpi. 

Appendix  

If Appendices are provided, they appear on a new page at the end of the manuscript. Multiple appendices are labeled with letters (Appendix A, Appendix B). A single appendix is labeled without letters (Appendix). Multiple appendices must be numbered in the order in which they are to appear. 

Any mathematical proof or development that is not critical to the exposition of the main part of the text may be placed in an appendix. 

Web Appendix  

Authors are free to provide a Web Appendix file as a companion to their articles. Authors may use the Web Appendix Word template or review the sample Web Appendix PDF in this downloadable zip file when preparing their Web Appendix.  

Page 1 of the Web Appendix file must contain the following: 

• The words “Web Appendix” or “Web Appendices” 
• Title of paper 
• Upon acceptance: author names and contact details (omit for anonymity prior to acceptance)  
• Table of contents with page numbers (if the Web Appendix has multiple sections) 
• The following disclosure: “These materials have been supplied by the authors to aid in the understanding of their paper. The AMA is sharing these materials at the request of the authors.” 

The purpose of a Web Appendix is to provide supplementary materials that are highly relevant to the article and may facilitate replication (e.g., study stimuli, pretests, replication studies, supplementary analyses). In contrast, material that is central to the understanding of the article should be included in the text or in an Appendix that is published with the article in the journal. Material that is not directly relevant (e.g., additional studies that are not central to the conclusions of the paper) should not be included in the Web Appendix.  

Each paper can have (at most) one Web Appendix file, which will be posted on the journal’s website upon acceptance.  

Web appendices will not be copyedited by the journal. Upon acceptance, the Web Appendix must be submitted as a single PDF file and must be ready to post as is.  

Please follow these instructions when preparing your Web Appendix:  

• The first page of the Web Appendix must include the following: (1) the words “Web Appendix” or “Web Appendices,” (2) title of the paper, (3) author names and contact details (omit for anonymity prior to acceptance), (4) a table of contents with page numbers for each section (if the Web Appendix has multiple sections), and (5) the following disclosure: “These materials have been supplied by the authors to aid in the understanding of their paper. The AMA is sharing these materials at the request of the authors.” 
• Use Times New Roman 12-point font. 
• Use the same heading styles as in the main paper. 
• If the Web Appendix has multiple sections, please ensure they are clearly labeled “Web Appendix A,” “Web Appendix B,” and so on. These headings may be given descriptive titles, such as “Web Appendix A: Robustness Checks.” 
• If the Web Appendix has multiple sections, please ensure each section begins on a new page.
• If the Web Appendix has multiple sections, please include page numbers, beginning with 1 (please note that this is different from the main document, which should not have page numbers). 
• Tables and figures in the Web Appendix should have the letter “W” before each table and figure number (i.e., “Table W1,” “Table W2”). 
• All equations should be numbered in sequence from the beginning to the end of the Web Appendix. Because in-text equations are numbered 1, 2, …, N, and because any equations in print-based appendices will be numbered A1, A2, …, AN, any Web Appendix equations should be numbered and referred to as W1, W2, …, WN. 

References that are cited only in the Web Appendix should be listed only at the end of the Web Appendix.  

The Web Appendix does not count toward the 50-page limit.  

The Web Appendix should be uploaded as a single PDF file (please note that this is different from the main document, which should be uploaded as a Word document [or as a PDF if written in LaTeX]). 

Please follow these guidelines for mentions of the Web Appendix in the text: 

• If there is a Web Appendix, it must be mentioned in text (e.g., “for further information, see the Web Appendix”). Please refer to such appendices as “Web Appendix.” Because some appendices might appear in print and others on the Web, it is necessary to standardize this terminology to eliminate reader confusion. 
• Any Web Appendix sections and Web Appendix tables/figures that are mentioned in the main text must be called out in alphanumeric order (e.g., Web Appendix E should not be mentioned in text before Web Appendices A through D). A mention of a Web Appendix in a footnote is considered to appear at the location of the note number in the text. 
• AMA will provide the URL for the Web Appendix, so you do not need to include this in your paper.

Accepted Manuscript Guidelines

Upon conditional acceptance , final files should be submitted through ScholarOne. Final submissions must meet all the stylistic requirements outlined on this page. 

Upon unconditional acceptance , authors will receive an email containing a link and instructions for completing a Contributor Form. Please complete the Contributor Form agreement as soon as possible. You will receive a separate email from the AMA editorial office if any additional files or file updates are needed before we can proceed with publication.   If the accepted article is published on any preprint sites (e.g., SSRN), it will need to be removed upon acceptance.

Please ensure these final files are uploaded to ScholarOne separately: 

• Main document (including title page, tables, figures, and print appendix if any) as a Word Doc (PDF is allowed only if the paper was created in LaTeX) (for some journals, this file will be published as an Express/Accepted Manuscript)  
• Figures in original file format (in addition to including the figures in the main document) (see figure guidelines above ) 
• Web Appendix as a PDF (see Web Appendix guidelines above ) 
• All LaTeX files (if applicable) 

Please follow all formatting instructions in the Submission Guidelines above . Please pay particular attention to the following items that can cause delays in editing and publication : 

• The manuscript, including tables, figures, and appendices, does not exceed 50 pages. 
• Make sure the text of the paper is 12-point font, double-spaced (tables and references may be single-spaced). 
• Provide a title page with author names and complete contact information of authors, including present position (i.e., title, department/school affiliation, university, email). 
• In addition to including figures in the main document, also submit original Excel or PowerPoint files for all graphics, not just a graphic pasted into Excel, PowerPoint, or Word. This is so the production staff can edit the content. We also accept PDF, EPS, or PostScript files made from the application that created the original figure if it was not created in Word or PowerPoint.  
• Pay particular attention to the instructions for preparing tables and figures, especially regarding use of color, file formats, font, etc.  
• Abstract should be in third person (“the authors”). 
• Use active voice (We designed the next three studies to test the propositions) instead of passive voice (The next three studies were designed to test the propositions) throughout the paper. Use of “we” is acceptable for multiauthored papers; for single authors, we recommend use of “I” pronouns (passive voice is also acceptable). 
• When secondary headings are used, please make sure to have more than one secondary heading per section (e.g., you may have a primary heading and two secondary/tertiary headings, but never a single secondary heading in a subsection). 
• Equations set apart from the text need to be numbered (1, 2, etc.). In text, refer to your equation as “In Equation 1, we …” not “In (1), we ….” 
• Include all author names in in-text citations with up to three authors (use the first author name and “et al.” only for four or more authors).  
• Include all author names in the reference list for works with up to 20 authors (with “et al.” for 21 or more authors). See reference style examples . 
• Include first and last names in all references, unless the initials were used in the original reference. Also include volume, issue (season, month, or date), and full page range for all journal/periodical references. This will reduce query time considerably.

Explore the AMA Journals

Check out the latest information and insights from Journal of Marketing , Journal of Marketing Research , Journal of Public Policy & Marketing , Journal of International Marketing , and Journal of Interactive Marketing .

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Journal of the Academy of Marketing Science

Official Publication of the Academy of Marketing Science

• Serves as a vital link between scholarly research and practical application.
• Accepts manuscripts that offer new insights, are literature-based, and demonstrate conceptual and methodological rigor.
• Accepts articles on the basis of their potential contribution to the advancement of the science and/or practice of marketing.
• John Hulland

Societies and partnerships

Latest issue

Volume 52, Issue 3

Latest articles

Turning the wheels of engagement: evidence from entertainment live streaming.

• Xiaofei Song
• Alain Yee Loong Chong

The bad-influencer effect: Indulgence undermines social connection

• Jessica Gamlin
• Maferima Touré-Tillery

The show must go on: The role of contract frames in safeguarding relationship continuity

• Sandy D. Jap

The impact of corporate social irresponsibility on prosocial consumer behavior

• Anders Gustafsson

Native advertising effectiveness: The role of congruence and consumer annoyance on clicks, bounces, and visits

• Alexander C. LaBrecque
• Clay M. Voorhees
• Paul W. Fombelle

Journal updates

Introducing new jams co-editors, 2022 jams sheth foundation best paper award.

JAMS has announced the shortlist and winning article for the 2022 Sheth Foundation Best Paper Award. Congratulations to Fine F. Leung, Flora F. Gu & Robert W. Palmatier on being presented this award for their article,  “ Online influencer marketing.”

Tribute to Dr. Harold W. Berkman

Remembering Dr. Berkman, Founding Fellow of the Academy of Marketing Science.

JAMS best paper award winners and finalists

Journal information.

• ABS Academic Journal Quality Guide
• Current Contents/Social & Behavioral Sciences
• Google Scholar
• Norwegian Register for Scientific Journals and Series
• OCLC WorldCat Discovery Service
• Social Science Citation Index
• TD Net Discovery Service
• UGC-CARE List (India)

Rights and permissions

Editorial policies

© Academy of Marketing Science

• Find a journal
• Publish with us
• Track your research

Editors cannot discuss submissions or the review process directly with authors (by phone, video, in person, etc.).

Authors must designate a corresponding author. The designated corresponding author should communicate with the editorial office (not the editor in chief or handling editor) on behalf of all authors and is expected to coordinate communications with co-authors.

• The submitting author may designate a different author to serve as corresponding author
• The corresponding author should communicate with the editorial office (not the editor in chief or handling editor) on behalf of all authors during the review process and is expected to coordinate communications with co-authors
• The submitting author can update the corresponding author listed in ScholarOne during each round of revision or the final file submission process (i.e., after your manuscript is accepted by the editor)
• After an accepted manuscript is forwarded to our publisher, neither the submitting author nor the editorial office can change the corresponding author through the ScholarOne system and OUP policy limits changes to authorship
• The designated corresponding author must submit the publication license and will remain the point of contact throughout the proofing process and for queries about the published article

Permissions

It is your responsibility to obtain permission to reproduce figures and other third-party content that will appear in your article or web appendix prior to acceptance.

If your manuscript or web appendix contain content that requires permission to reproduce, make sure you have obtained all relevant permissions prior to acceptance and that the correct permission text has been used as required by the copyright holders.

Due to the complexity of copyright issues, all permissions-related queries are handled by our publisher, Oxford University Press (OUP). Editorial office staff are unable to advise on what constitutes fair use of third-party content or how to obtain necessary permissions.

OUP provides detailed guidelines to help authors determine when permission is needed to use third-party content and answer common questions pertaining to the process of obtaining permissions. See OUP’s Rights and permissions guidelines for authors or contact OUP with questions regarding permissions.

Your university’s legal department may also be able to provide assistance.

Cover Letter

Your cover letter is confidential (it is only visible to the editor and associate editor) . In your cover letter:

• Suggest up to three current associate editors appropriate for your manuscript ( for new submissions only )
• Disclose potential conflicts of interest
• For invited revisions , explain any changes in authorship (addition, removal, or reordering of authors)

Author Anonymity

Our review process is double anonymized .

Authors must ensure that all files (and links to external materials) submitted for review are completely anonymized:

• Do not identify yourself or your university affiliation in your manuscript, web appendix , or revision notes during the review process (however, if applicable, author names should not be omitted from citations and references)
• In the methods sections, where data collection and participant pools are discussed, use generic descriptive terms such as “large public university” instead of the names of specific institutions where data were collected
• Do not include the author note or the data collection statement in the manuscript file during the review process (these items must be entered during Step 6 of the submission process and will only be visible to the editor and associate editor)
• Do not include acknowledgments or funding information in your manuscript (provide this information in the author note )
• Do not disclose conflicts of interest in your manuscript (provide this information in the confidential cover letter )
• Ensure that the URL does not identify authors or institutions
• Make sure the webpage, all folders, and all files uploaded at the link are completely anonymized
• Check individual file properties for identifying information (e.g., check “Info” under the “File” tab in Excel and Word documents, check “Properties” under the “File” tab in PDFs)
• The URL must be accessible without requesting access (this compromises author and reviewer anonymity)

If your manuscript is accepted for publication, the final versions of your manuscript and web appendix should be updated to include identifying information that was omitted during the review process.

Author Note

Enter your author note during Step 6 of the submission process (do not include your author note in the manuscript file during the review process or upload a separate title page with this information) .

Denote the corresponding author and provide the following information for each author:

• Email address
• Current position
• Current affiliation (department and university/institution)
• Acknowledgments of financial, technical, or other assistance
• The author names and order listed in the author note MUST match the author information added to the system (during Step 4 for new submissions and Step 5 for revisions)
• Verify the order of author names and update the author note with each revision (this provides the journal with an authorship record for each submission as contact and affiliation details listed in ScholarOne user profiles may change later)
• If the manuscript is based on the lead author’s dissertation, the author note should state this (and should not state that all authors contributed equally to the article) if you would like your accepted article to be considered for the Ferber Award

See our sample author notes .

Manuscript Length

Authors should strive for economy and clarity when preparing manuscripts for JCR . The contribution to knowledge relative to the length of the manuscript is a key criterion in the editorial review process.

The manuscript length may not exceed 60 double-spaced pages. This page limit applies to the entire document:

• Manuscript Title (we do not require a separate title page)
• Consumer Relevance and Contribution Statement (for new submissions only)

Abstract and Keywords

• Main Text ( tables and figures should be placed within the main text and are included in the 60-page limit; do not place them at the end of the manuscript or upload separate files with tables and figures)
• Appendixes   (if applicable; note that a manuscript appendix differs from a web appendix )
• We cannot make exceptions to the page limit or the manuscript formatting requirements to accommodate additional content
• A separate web appendix file may be submitted and does not count toward the page limit
• Invited revisions must adhere to the 60-page limit; if the decision letter states that your revised manuscript should comprise fewer than 60 pages, you must adhere to the page limit specified in the decision letter

Proofreading and Copyediting

Proofread your manuscript carefully before submission:

• Make sure references are accurate and complete (e.g., there must be a reference for every citation and a citation for every reference)
• Check the accuracy of all statistics, formulas, tables, and figures
• Ensure all comments among authors have been removed, all tracked changes have been accepted or rejected, and “track changes” has been turned off

Consider hiring a professional proofreader or copyeditor if it will enhance the readability and clarity of your manuscript. If you need professional assistance preparing your manuscript for submission (proofreading, copyediting, general writing, and language or translation issues), consider the following:

• American Journal Experts
• Editorial Freelancers Association

Note:  These are merely suggestions provided for your convenience and use of these professional editing services has no bearing on acceptance of your manuscript. JCR does not have a relationship with these companies and we are unable to make specific recommendations. Your university or academic association may also be able to provide a list of trusted editorial specialists.

Manuscript Content and Formatting

The manuscript file must include the following items in the following order (see our sample manuscript for guidance):

• Main Text ( tables and figures should be placed within the main text and are included in the 60-page limit ; do not place them at the end of the manuscript or upload separate files with tables and figures)
• Appendixes (if applicable; note that a manuscript appendix differs from a web appendix )
• Do not include the author note or the data collection statement in the manuscript file during the review process
• If you are also submitting a web appendix or revision notes , these must be submitted as separate files

The manuscript must adhere to the following formatting requirements (see our sample manuscript for guidance):

• Upload your file in Word, Rich Text, or PDF format (if your manuscript was created in LaTeX, please upload a PDF)
• The file size may not exceed 40 MB
• Use US letter size (8.5″ x 11″) and one-inch (2.54 cm) margins on all sides
• Use Times New Roman 12-point font, single-column format, and portrait orientation
• The consumer relevance and contribution statement (for new submissions only) , abstract , main text, and references must be double spaced and left justified (i.e., aligned with the left margin )
• References should have a half-inch (1.27 cm) hanging indent
• Do not number headings
• Add an extra double space before and after primary or secondary headings
• Add an extra double space before tertiary headings
• Do not number the pages (the system will number pages during file conversion)
• Do not include a running head, headers, footers, endnotes, underlining, or line numbering (the system will number lines during file conversion)

Additionally, our style guide for accepted manuscripts contains detailed instructions on reporting statistics and formatting the main text and references .

If you need assistance formatting your manuscript, please consult your university support staff.

Manuscript Title

Enter your manuscript title during Step 1 of the submission process (Step 2 if you are submitting an invited revision ).

The manuscript title must also be included in the manuscript file (before the consumer relevance and contribution statement; we do not require a separate title page) .

• The title entered into ScholarOne MUST match the title in the manuscript file
• Keep your title concise and clear (many titles can be shortened)
• Use descriptive terms and phrases that accurately highlight the core content of the manuscript
• Use title case (also referred to as headline case)

JCR titles follow Chicago Manual of Style rules on headline style capitalization:

• Capitalize the first and last words
• Capitalize all other major words
• Lowercase articles ( a , an , and the )
• Lowercase as in any grammatical function
• Lowercase common coordinating conjunctions ( and , but , for , or , and nor )
• Lowercase the part of a proper name that would be lowercase in text (e.g., de or von)
• Lowercase prepositions regardless of length except when they are used adverbially or adjectivally (e.g., up in Look Up , down in Turn Down , to in Come To ) or when they compose part of a Latin expression used adjectivally or adverbially (e.g., De Facto , In Vitro )
• Lowercase to not only as a preposition but also as part of an infinitive ( to Run , to Hide , etc.)

You can easily convert your title to the correct style using the following free online tools:

• Capitalize My Title
• Title Case Converter

Titles are an important mechanism for drawing a wide variety of potential readers to your manuscript if it is accepted. Online indexing databases and search engines such as Google Scholar and Web of Science use titles to categorize and display articles, and the title may therefore influence whether scholars will read an article. A well-constructed and informative title should make your article discoverable to a larger number of scholars, which could lead to more citations.

Consumer Relevance and Contribution Statement

(revised September 23, 2021)

Every new submission must include a consumer relevance and contribution statement (maximum of 300 words) .  Do not include a consumer relevance and contribution statement with invited revisions.

Enter your consumer relevance and contribution statement during Step 6 of the submission process . It must also be included in the manuscript file   (double spaced and placed before the abstract) .

Your consumer relevance and contribution statement will be shared with the entire review team. The purpose of the statement is for you to show how the paper aligns with the mission of the journal by providing a clear and concise understanding of the primary consumer insights, the contribution of your manuscript beyond extant consumer research, and the relevance of your findings to appropriate non-academic audiences.

Your consumer relevance and contribution statement should:

• Clearly articulate the ways in which the research provides important insight into a research topic concerning consumers and/or consumption in the marketplace
• Situate your research within existing consumer research knowledge and explain what the research adds to what is already known
• Explain how the research is relevant to and may be used by one or more non-academic constituents
• Do not reveal author identities in your consumer relevance and contribution statement
• The consumer relevance and contribution statement entered into ScholarOne MUST match the consumer relevance and contribution statement in the manuscript file
• Do not include a consumer relevance and contribution statement when submitting an invited revision
• The consumer relevance and contribution statement will not appear in published articles

See our sample consumer relevance and contribution statements .

Enter your abstract (a maximum of 200 words) during Step 1 of the submission process (Step 2 if you are submitting an invited revision ). It must also be included in the manuscript file (double spaced and placed after the consumer relevance and contribution statement), followed by a list of three to six keywords in a separate paragraph.

Your abstract should substantively summarize your manuscript and address the following:

• Topic/Issue
• Approach/Methods
• Results/Findings
• Implications/Conclusions
• The abstract entered into ScholarOne MUST match the abstract in the manuscript file.
• Do not include any citations, tables, or figures in your abstract.
• Do not include any information that is not in your article.
• Be concise; avoid expressions such as “we found that consumers…” (i.e., omit “we found that…” and just write “consumers…” instead).
• The abstract should contain enough information about your manuscript to allow potential reviewers to judge whether they have enough expertise to review the manuscript; the abstract should also be engaging enough for them to want to review it.

In crafting your abstract, recognize that JCR is an interdisciplinary journal and we aspire to being read and cited by scholars in a wide variety of disciplines. In most cases, the title and the abstract are the only part of an article that scholars will see in online indexing databases and search engines such as Google Scholar and Web of Science . A well-constructed and informative abstract should make your article discoverable to a larger number of scholars, which could lead to more citations.

Make the writing in your abstract accessible, so that the importance of your article will be transparent to a wide variety of scholars. Include terms and descriptions that will allow your article to be found by scholars interested in your theories, substantive findings, and methods. For instance, a manuscript investigating processing style by comparing adults across the age span should reference both the relevant theories of processing and the operationalization through age, such that scholars with either interest would be drawn to the work.

See our sample abstract .

Do not number your headings. You may use up to three levels of headings:

• Primary Headings: all-caps, centered, bold, with an extra double space before and after
• Secondary Headings: title case (all major words are capitalized), flushed left, with an extra double space before and after
• Tertiary Headings: title case (all major words are capitalized), indented, italicized, punctuated with a period, with an extra double space before the heading; the text follows on the same line

See our sample manuscript which includes sample headings.

You can easily convert your headings to the correct style using the following free online tools:

We strongly discourage the use of footnotes (not to be confused with endnotes, which appear at the end of the manuscript and are not allowed at JCR) .

If you use footnotes, they should appear at the bottom of the given page. Create notes that are linked to the text using the footnote function in Word so that the footnotes are automatically and accurately renumbered when you make changes.

Tables must be included in the main manuscript file and placed within the body of the manuscript (do not place them at the end of the manuscript or upload separate files with tables) .

• Each table should be numbered consecutively (e.g., TABLE 1) and should have a short descriptive title
• Refer to tables in-text by number (e.g., table 1)
• Do not refer to tables using terms such as “above,” “below,” “preceding,” or “the following”
• If necessary, you may include tables in landscape orientation (but please ensure all other manuscript contents are in portrait orientation)

See our sample manuscript which includes sample tables.

Note: If your manuscript is accepted for publication, the typesetter will require an editable version of each table.

Figures must be included in the main manuscript file and placed within the body of the manuscript (do not place them at the end of the manuscript or upload separate files with figures) .

• It is the author’s responsibility to obtain all necessary permissions for figures containing third-party content prior to publication
• Each figure should be numbered consecutively (e.g., FIGURE 1) and should have a short descriptive title
• Refer to figures in text by number (e.g., figure 1)
• Do not refer to figures using terms such as “above,” “below,” “preceding,” or “the following”
• If necessary, you may include figures in landscape orientation (but please ensure the other manuscript contents are in portrait orientation)

High-resolution images are not required during the review process, and authors are strongly encouraged to include lower-resolution images in order to reduce the manuscript file size and streamline uploading and downloading.

• Axes: Label both vertical and horizontal axes. The ordinate label should be centered above the ordinate axis; the abscissa label should be placed flush right, beneath the abscissa. Place all calibration tics inside the axis lines and their values outside the axis lines. If the junction of the axes is zero, there should be only one zero.
• Error Bars: When graphing means, the inclusion of error bars is optional. However, if error bars are reported, they must be the 95% confidence interval.
• Labels: Number each figure. Figure labels must be centered and typed in all capital letters.
• Legends: Legends should be placed horizontally, if possible, either in an appropriate white space in the figure or centered beneath the figure.
• Lines: Clearly differentiate lines within figures. Variations include bold line, fine line, broken line, dotted line, etc. Lines within the figure should be identified by either a legend or a short description in a note.
• Notes and Source Lines: Notes and source lines appear at the bottom of the table or figure, indented and aligned to the left. Descriptive information in addition to any notes should be placed above the notes, paragraph indented.
• Space: When boxes are used to delimit text or freespace drawings in figures, white space inside boxes should be kept to a minimum.
• Titles: Each figure must have its own descriptive title, centered and typed in all caps.
• Typefaces: Use only sans serif typefaces (e.g., Helvetica, Arial ) in figures. Lettering on all figures must be professional in appearance and large enough to be easily read when reduced to actual size.

See our sample manuscript which includes sample figures.

If your manuscript is accepted for publication:

• You must provide separate figure files and may submit higher-resolution images at that time
• If your figures contain any third-party content, you must obtain permissions from copyright holders

A manuscript appendix is distinct from a  web appendix and counts toward the page limit . A manuscript appendix contains content that is integral to the manuscript (not supplementary materials or enhancements).

• Manuscript appendixes should begin on a new page before the references
• Label each appendix (centered and typed in all capital letters, e.g., APPENDIX A)
• Label a single manuscript appendix without letters or numbers (i.e., APPENDIX)
• Label multiple manuscript appendixes with letters (i.e., APPENDIX A, APPENDIX B, APPENDIX C)
• Each appendix must have a short descriptive title (centered and typed in all capital letters)
• Mention appendix contents in-text where relevant (e.g., “See the appendix for additional details” or “See appendix B for details”)
• Manuscript appendixes must follow all manuscript formatting guidelines (exceptions include stimuli, instruments, and other content included in its original form)

See our sample manuscript which includes sample manuscript appendixes.

Each reference should be cited in the text at an appropriate place. Do not include references that have no corresponding citations in the text, and be sure that you have provided the complete reference for every in-text citation.

• Author names should be left in the references (if applicable)
• There must be a reference for every citation and a citation for every reference
• References must be double spaced with a half-inch (1.27 cm) hanging indent

See our sample manuscript which includes sample references. Additionally, our style guide for accepted manuscripts contains detailed instructions on formatting references.

Web Appendix

Authors are encouraged to submit a supplementary document (i.e., a web appendix) containing stimuli, instruments, replication studies, or additional information not contained in the manuscript.

A web appendix is distinct from a manuscript appendix and does not count toward the manuscript page limit . A web appendix should include supplementary materials or enhancements only (not content integral to the article).

The web appendix must be uploaded as a separate file (40 MB maximum file size) during the submission process:

• Select the “Web Appendix” file designation during File Upload (Step 2 for new submissions and Step 3 for revisions).
• Select “Yes” when prompted during Step 6.
• Upload only one (1) web appendix file containing all supplementary materials
• Do not include author names or other identifying information in your web appendix during the review process ( the web appendix will be shared with the entire review team )
• The web appendix will be included (after the manuscript) in the system-generated anonymized PDF that is provided to reviewers
• the manuscript title (exactly as it appears in the manuscript file)
• a table of contents or a brief paragraph describing the contents of the web appendix
• Label each web appendix (centered and typed in all capital letters, e.g., WEB APPENDIX A)
• Label a single web appendix without letters or numbers (i.e., WEB APPENDIX)
• Label multiple web appendixes with letters (i.e., WEB APPENDIX A, WEB APPENDIX B, WEB APPENDIX C)
• Each web appendix must have a short descriptive title (centered and typed in all capital letters)
• Mention web appendix contents in-text where relevant (e.g., “See the web appendix for additional details” or “See web appendix B for details”)
• The web appendix must follow the manuscript formatting guidelines (exceptions include stimuli, instruments, and other content that is included in its original form) .
• See our recommendations for including content in Excel files containing many columns or worksheets or media files .
• If you are including a link to your data or other supplementary materials, make sure the webpage at the link is completely anonymized and the URL does not identify authors or institutions.
• Ensure all comments among authors have been removed, all tracked changes have been accepted or rejected, and that the “track changes” feature has been turned off.
• If your manuscript is accepted, the web appendix will accompany the online version of your article and will not be copyedited or proofed.

Excel Files

Do not upload Excel files containing many columns or worksheets (these files may not convert properly in the system).

If you would like to share data in a complex Excel file, we recommend one of the following options:

• Convert your Excel file to a PDF and upload the PDF in the system (check the formatting after file conversion and ensure the contents are readable).
• Remove identifying properties from the file
• Upload the file to the cloud (e.g., Dropbox) or an open-access third-party data repository (e.g., Open Science Framework)
• Make sure the link is anonymized and works

Media Files

Do not upload audio or video files (all files shared with reviewers must convert to PDF format) . If you would like to share media files with reviewers, we recommend one of the following options:

• Embed the content within the manuscript or web appendix.
• Upload the media files to the cloud or an open-access third-party data repository and provide a link in the manuscript or web appendix (make sure all links are anonymized and work after file conversion) .

Prior Related Submission to JCR

For transparency of the review process and fairness to other authors, any manuscript previously rejected by JCR that is resubmitted as a new submission must be clearly identified as such upon resubmission.

Authors must explain in detail how the new manuscript is substantially different from the previously rejected version, thereby justifying consideration as a new submission (this information is requested in Step 6 of the submission process) .

Failure to disclose a previous related submission or rejection of a prior version of a manuscript will be considered a breach of professional ethics .

If your submission is not an invited revision but you have submitted a version of the manuscript previously (e.g., you received a “straight reject” or “desk reject” decision, the revision deadline expired, the submission was withdrawn) or there is significant overlap with one of your prior submissions to JCR , the following applies:

• It must be submitted as a new manuscript and will receive a new manuscript ID.
• Provide the previous manuscript ID and the previous decision
• Explain the relationship between the new submission and the prior related submission
• Staff will link the submissions internally to give the editor and AE full access to the prior submission.
• If your manuscript is sent for review, the editor may invite one or more members of the previous review team (the editor will decide upon resubmission and we cannot guarantee retaining any members of the original review team).
• The reviewers will not be given access to the prior submission and decision letter or (optional) revision notes.
• Upload your revision notes in a separate file
• Choose the “Supplementary File NOT for Review” file designation during Step 2 of the submission process
• Mention the revision notes in your confidential cover letter to the editor (this file will only be accessible to the editor and associate editor and will not be shared with reviewers)

What’s Included: Research Paper Template

If you’re preparing to write an academic research paper, our free research paper template is the perfect starting point. In the template, we cover every section step by step, with clear, straightforward explanations and examples .

The template’s structure is based on the tried and trusted best-practice format for formal academic research papers. The template structure reflects the overall research process, ensuring your paper will have a smooth, logical flow from chapter to chapter.

The research paper template covers the following core sections:

• The title page/cover page
• Abstract (sometimes also called the executive summary)
• Section 1: Introduction 
• Section 2: Literature review 
• Section 3: Methodology
• Section 4: Findings /results
• Section 5: Discussion
• Section 6: Conclusion
• Reference list

Each section is explained in plain, straightforward language , followed by an overview of the key elements that you need to cover within each section. We’ve also included links to free resources to help you understand how to write each section.

The cleanly formatted Google Doc can be downloaded as a fully editable MS Word Document (DOCX format), so you can use it as-is or convert it to LaTeX.

FAQs: Research Paper Template

What format is the template (doc, pdf, ppt, etc.).

The research paper template is provided as a Google Doc. You can download it in MS Word format or make a copy to your Google Drive. You’re also welcome to convert it to whatever format works best for you, such as LaTeX or PDF.

What types of research papers can this template be used for?

The template follows the standard best-practice structure for formal academic research papers, so it is suitable for the vast majority of degrees, particularly those within the sciences.

Some universities may have some additional requirements, but these are typically minor, with the core structure remaining the same. Therefore, it’s always a good idea to double-check your university’s requirements before you finalise your structure.

Is this template for an undergrad, Masters or PhD-level research paper?

This template can be used for a research paper at any level of study. It may be slight overkill for an undergraduate-level study, but it certainly won’t be missing anything.

How long should my research paper be?

This depends entirely on your university’s specific requirements, so it’s best to check with them. We include generic word count ranges for each section within the template, but these are purely indicative. 

What about the research proposal?

If you’re still working on your research proposal, we’ve got a template for that here .

We’ve also got loads of proposal-related guides and videos over on the Grad Coach blog .

How do I write a literature review?

We have a wealth of free resources on the Grad Coach Blog that unpack how to write a literature review from scratch. You can check out the literature review section of the blog here.

How do I create a research methodology?

We have a wealth of free resources on the Grad Coach Blog that unpack research methodology, both qualitative and quantitative. You can check out the methodology section of the blog here.

Can I share this research paper template with my friends/colleagues?

Yes, you’re welcome to share this template. If you want to post about it on your blog or social media, all we ask is that you reference this page as your source.

Can Grad Coach help me with my research paper?

Within the template, you’ll find plain-language explanations of each section, which should give you a fair amount of guidance. However, you’re also welcome to consider our private coaching services .

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Journal of Marketing and Consumer Research

The journal is a peer-reviewed, international and interdisciplinary research journal.

The scope of the journal includes, but not limited to, product marketing, pricing, distribution, service, retail , brand management, licensing, ethics, research methods & operations, social marketing, identity, digital marketing, new technologies in marketing and consumer research, behavior and dynamics of consumers, etc.

The journal also covers interdisciplinary research across the topics on technological development, management and behavior sciences.

IISTE is a member of  CrossRef .

The DOI of the journal is:  https://doi.org/10.7176/JMCR

Index of this journal: EBSCO (U.S.) Index Copernicus (Poland) Ulrich's Periodicals Directory (ProQuest, U.S.) JournalTOCS (UK) PKP Open Archives Harvester (Canada) Bielefeld Academic Search Engine (Germany) Elektronische Zeitschriftenbibliothek EZB (Germany) SCI-Edge (U.S.) Open J-Gate (India) OCLC WorldCat (United States) Universe Digtial Library (Malaysia) NewJour (Georgetown University Library, U.S.) Google Scholar The IC Impact factor value of this journal is 3.341

Vol 92 (2024)

Table of contents.

Paper submission email:  [email protected]

ISSN 2422-8451

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