Instructions for authors

Thank you for choosing to submit your paper to us. These instructions will ensure we have everything required so your paper can move through peer review, production and publication smoothly. Please take the time to read and follow them as closely as possible, as doing so will ensure your paper matches the journal's requirements.

We offer a range of editing, manuscript preparation and post publication services to assist you in preparing your manuscript for submission, increase your chance of acceptance, or broaden the readership of your article. General guidance on every stage of the publication process is available at our  Author Services website.

Research your options 

Selecting the right journal is crucial since submitting to an incompatible one is the leading cause of rejection. Ideally, identify your target journal before writing; this allows you to tailor your manuscript to the journal's specific "conversation," format requirements, and word limits.

To narrow down the vast field of options, start with familiar titles from your own citations. You should also use tools like Google Scholar or library databases to identify journals frequently publishing in your subject area.

Key Takeaways for Authors

• Target Early: Choose your journal before writing to align with its specific style and scope.

• Check Requirements: Ensure your article type and length fit the journal’s guidelines.

• Research the Fit: Use your own reference list and academic search engines to find suitable venues.

Draft your article 

"To boost your publication success, match your manuscript to your target journal’s audience and scope. Follow the Instructions for Authors strictly to ensure your paper meets the editor's standards and avoids processing delays."

Key points retained across all versions:

• Matching the journal's aims and scope.

• Following the Instructions for Authors (IFAs).

• Meeting editor expectations to increase acceptance chances.

Read the instructions for authors 

Instructions for Authors (IFAs) provide the mandatory roadmap for your submission, covering article formatting, submission logistics, ethical requirements, and publishing models. Adhering to these rules is vital for a successful peer-review and production process.

Key Information Included in IFAs:

• Journal Scope: Accepted article types and language.

• Preparation: Word counts, formatting, and templates.

• Logistics: The specific online submission system to use.

• Compliance: Ethics, clinical trials, and journal-specific policies.

• Access: Open Access and other publishing options.

Make your submission 

5 Steps to Prepare Your Submission

1. Check Journal Requirements: Visit Journal of Tourism and Creativity to read the specific "Instructions for Authors." Many journals now offer format-free submission to save you time.

2. Write a Cover Letter: Use a template to create a compelling letter that highlights your research's value to the editor.

3. Review Editorial Policies: Ensure your work complies with the standard Journal of Tourism and Creativity editorial policies.

4. Optimize Discoverability: Use the right keywords and identifiers to make your research easy for others to find.

5. Register for an ORCiD: Create a free digital ID (it takes 30 seconds) to ensure you receive proper credit for your work.

Peer review 

Upon submission, independent experts evaluate your paper’s validity, originality, and quality. Beyond acting as a formal quality control for journals, peer review provides constructive feedback to help refine your work. Ideally, it serves as a collaborative dialogue that strengthens your research before publication. 

Making revisions 

Peer review is a cornerstone of academic integrity that helps editors make informed decisions and helps authors refine their work. By identifying errors and suggesting improvements, reviewers ensure that the final research is of the highest possible quality—a fact supported by nearly all published authors. 

Your article is accepted 

Once accepted, your article enters our tracking system (CATS). You will receive an email when your proof is ready. Please follow the specific instructions provided, as proofing methods vary by journal. Review our production video and Adobe guide to ensure a smooth, error-free process. 

Promoting your work 

Research impact refers to the real-world effects of your work. Depending on the field, this impact can be academic (advancing theory), societal (benefiting culture), policy-based (influencing decisions), economic (driving growth), environmental (promoting sustainability), or health-related (improving medical practices).