Publishing a research paper is not only about good content — proper formatting is equally important. Many research papers get rejected before review simply because they do not follow journal formatting rules.
In this guide, you will learn:
✔ Standard research paper structure
✔ IEEE formatting rules
✔ Springer formatting guidelines
✔ Elsevier manuscript format
✔ ACM template rules
✔ Expert formatting tips to increase acceptance chances
Let’s start step-by-step.
🧾 Why Research Paper Formatting Matters
Correct formatting helps:
✅ Editors review papers faster
✅ Avoid desk rejection
✅ Improve professional appearance
✅ Increase acceptance probability
✅ Ensure indexing compatibility
Most international journals strictly require template-based formatting.
Correct formatting helps:
✅ Editors review papers faster
✅ Avoid desk rejection
✅ Improve professional appearance
✅ Increase acceptance probability
✅ Ensure indexing compatibility
Most international journals strictly require template-based formatting.
📑 Standard Research Paper Structure (Used by Most Journals)
| Section No. | Section Name | What to Include | Key Details / Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Title Page | Paper title, Author names, Affiliations, Email address | Ensure title is clear, concise, and informative |
| 2 | Abstract | Short summary of the research | Must include Problem, Method, Results, Conclusion (150–250 words) |
| 3 | Keywords | Important research terms | Include 4–6 relevant keywords related to your topic |
| 4 | Introduction | Research background, Problem statement, Objective | Explain why the research is important |
| 5 | Literature Review | Previous studies, Existing research, Research gaps | Show how your work differs from past studies |
| 6 | Methodology | Tools used, Data collection method, Experimental setup | Provide enough detail so others can repeat the study |
| 7 | Results & Discussion | Tables, Graphs, Observations, Analysis | Interpret findings clearly with supporting visuals |
| 8 | Conclusion | Summary of findings, Contributions, Future work | Keep concise and highlight research impact |
| 9 | References | List of cited sources | Must follow journal-specific citation style (IEEE, APA, Springer, etc.) |
📘 Research Paper Formatting Guide Comparison Table
| Publisher / Format | Layout | Font & Size | Key Formatting Rules | Section Order / Special Requirements | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| IEEE | Two column layout | Times New Roman, Title 24 pt, Body 10 pt, Single spacing | Strict template required, numbered citations mandatory | Title → Authors → Abstract → Keywords → Introduction → Methodology → Results → Conclusion → References | |
| Springer | Single column layout | Times New Roman, 12 pt | Standard margins (1 inch), journal-specific template required | Standard research structure followed | |
| Elsevier | Usually single column manuscript | Journal-specific (commonly Times New Roman 12 pt) | Clear headings required, high-resolution figures mandatory, editable text needed | Flexible structure but must follow journal instructions | |
| ACM | Two column layout | Use official ACM template font settings | CCS Concepts mandatory, author keywords required, strict conference template | Standard structure using ACM template sections |
🎯 Universal Formatting Tips for Easy Paper Acceptance
| Tip No. | Formatting Rule | What You Should Do | Important Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Use Journal Template Only | Always download and use the official journal template | Never format the paper manually from scratch |
| 2 | Keep Abstract Simple | Write short, clear sentences | Editors read the abstract first, so keep it concise |
| 3 | Maintain Proper Figure Labels | Use proper naming like Figure 1: System Architecture | Avoid incorrect labels like Fig1 or missing captions |
| 4 | Avoid Mixed Fonts | Use one consistent font throughout the paper | Recommended fonts: Times New Roman or Calibri (if allowed) |
| 5 | Check Plagiarism Before Submission | Ensure plagiarism percentage is low | Ideal: Below 10%, Acceptable: Below 15% |
| 6 | Convert to PDF Carefully | Review the final PDF before submission | Check font alignment, image clarity, column formatting |
📥 Common Reasons Papers Get Rejected Due to Formatting
❌ Wrong template used
❌ Missing author details
❌ Incorrect references
❌ Low-resolution figures
❌ Abstract too long
❌ Improper margins
Avoiding these mistakes can increase acceptance chances significantly.
🚀 Pro Tips for Students Publishing First Paper
⭐ Always follow journal instructions page
⭐ Use reference manager tools
⭐ Keep figures clear and labeled
⭐ Write short paragraphs
⭐ Submit in both DOC + PDF if allowed
🏁 Final Words
Correct research paper formatting is the first step toward successful publication.
Whether submitting to:
✔ IEEE
✔ Springer
✔ Elsevier
✔ ACM
Following the official template and structure greatly improves your success rate.
Spend time formatting properly — it can be the difference between rejection and publication.