Completing a journal article assignment is a rigorous process that involves research, analysis, drafting, and revision. However, the stage just before submission—the final check—is one of the most critical yet often overlooked steps. This phase ensures your hard work meets academic standards, is error-free, and is polished enough to make a strong impression. From language refinement to formatting compliance and reference verification, this article offers a comprehensive checklist for finalizing your journal article assignment before hitting the “submit” button.
1. Review Assignment Guidelines Thoroughly
Start by revisiting the original instructions or rubrics provided by your professor or institution. Common elements to double-check include:
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Word count (excluding references, figures, and appendices)
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Required formatting (font size, spacing, margins, etc.)
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Section structure (Abstract, Introduction, Methods, Results, Discussion, Conclusion)
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Citation style (APA, MLA, Chicago, Vancouver, etc.)
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Specific submission protocols (file format, platform, deadline)
Failure to comply with these technicalities can lead to grade penalties or outright rejection.
2. Reread for Coherence and Flow
Even the most well-researched paper can lose impact if it lacks logical flow. During your final review, ask:
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Do paragraphs transition smoothly?
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Is there a clear progression from the introduction to the conclusion?
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Does each section fulfill its function?
Reading the paper aloud or using text-to-speech tools can help you catch awkward phrasing or abrupt transitions.
3. Check for Clarity and Conciseness
Academic writing should be both informative and efficient. Eliminate:
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Wordy expressions: “due to the fact that” → “because”
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Redundancies: “basic fundamentals,” “final outcome”
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Unclear pronouns: Replace “it” or “this” with specific nouns when necessary
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Vague terminology: Replace “things,” “stuff,” or “a lot” with precise terms
If a sentence doesn’t add new value or support your thesis, consider trimming it.
4. Proofread for Grammar, Spelling, and Punctuation
Automated spelling and grammar checkers are helpful, but not foolproof. Review:
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Subject-verb agreement
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Tense consistency
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Article usage (a, an, the)
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Comma splices and run-on sentences
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Academic spelling (e.g., “analyse” vs. “analyze” based on your region)
If possible, set the text aside for a day or two before proofreading. A fresh perspective increases your chances of spotting mistakes.
5. Verify Citation Accuracy
Incorrect or inconsistent citations are a common cause of academic penalties. Your final citation review should include:
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Ensuring every in-text citation has a matching reference entry
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Verifying that references follow the required style guide precisely
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Checking that all journal names, authors, years, and titles are accurate
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Ensuring online sources include proper URLs or DOIs
Using tools like EndNote, Zotero, or Mendeley can simplify this step, but manual checks are still crucial.
6. Evaluate Table and Figure Presentation
Tables and figures should enhance your arguments—not confuse your reader. Make sure:
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Each figure/table has a number and descriptive title
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They are referenced clearly in the text
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Captions are detailed enough to explain content without reading the full text
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Formatting (font, spacing, borders) is consistent and clean
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The placement within the text follows the journal or instructor’s guidelines
Ensure you have permission for any figures or images not originally created by you.
7. Test Readability and Tone
Your paper should sound academic, not conversational. Watch for:
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Informal language (e.g., “a bunch of studies” → “numerous studies”)
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Excessive jargon that might alienate interdisciplinary readers
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Passive voice overuse (unless stylistically necessary)
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Repetitive phrases or sentence structures
Maintaining a formal, objective tone across the entire paper ensures professionalism and clarity.
8. Ensure Argument Alignment and Relevance
Your final check should confirm that every element of your paper contributes to the central thesis. Ask yourself:
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Does each section support your research question or hypothesis?
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Are any parts off-topic or underdeveloped?
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Do your conclusions logically stem from your evidence and analysis?
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Are all points properly contextualized with scholarly literature?
If anything feels disconnected or forced, now’s the time to revise or remove it.
9. Conduct a Plagiarism Check
Even unintentional plagiarism can result in severe academic consequences. Use tools like Turnitin, Grammarly Premium, or Quetext to scan your work. Double-check:
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All paraphrased content is sufficiently rewritten and cited
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Direct quotations are enclosed in quotation marks and sourced
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Ideas not your own are credited appropriately
It’s better to cite too much than too little.
10. Confirm Document Format and Submission Standards
Technical errors can lead to failed submissions. Final formatting checks should include:
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Saving the file in the correct format (usually .docx or .pdf)
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Renaming the file as per naming conventions (e.g., LastName_AssignmentTitle.docx)
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Removing tracked changes or comments
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Ensuring that all hyperlinks work (especially for online submissions)
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Including any required cover pages, declarations, or appendices
Before you click “submit,” review submission confirmation procedures—sometimes platforms require a final acknowledgment or email verification.
11. Use a Final Checklist
Create or use an existing checklist to cover all aspects before submission. Example:
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Followed assignment instructions
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Checked structure and flow
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Proofread for grammar and spelling
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Reviewed citations and references
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Examined tables and figures
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Confirmed document formatting
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Performed plagiarism check
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Saved and named file correctly
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Rehearsed or printed if needed
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Submitted via the correct platform
Checking these boxes gives peace of mind and helps ensure your submission is as polished as possible.
12. Consider Seeking External Feedback
If time allows, have someone else review your article:
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A peer may catch inconsistencies or unclear arguments
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A tutor or academic writing center can offer professional guidance
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An AI tool like ChatGPT (used wisely) can point out errors or suggest improvements
Don’t underestimate the value of an outside perspective before submitting.
Conclusion: Submission Confidence Starts with Preparation
Submitting a journal article assignment is the culmination of your academic effort and intellectual growth. By conducting thorough final checks, you ensure not only compliance with technical and stylistic requirements but also the clarity, credibility, and impact of your work. This final phase is where good assignments become great ones—polished, professional, and submission-ready.
A meticulous review process reflects a commitment to excellence. It signals to your instructor or reviewer that you value your work and respect academic standards. In an era of fast-paced learning and digital submission platforms, taking the time to slow down and double-check can distinguish your assignment in the most positive way possible.
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