Dan Garisto

Freelance science journalist

How to write an email to a researcher you’ve never spoken to before

Since I’ve gotten asked about careers in science writing/journalism twice in the past week, I’ve been hunting down basic resources (what is science writing, how to pitch, where a science writing career stats) from excellent sites like The Open Notebook to help get folks started. But this is a particularly basic question—so basic that people usually don’t ask it and (IMO) it doesn’t get a lot of good answers. Here’s my take.

SUBJECT LINE Media Inquiry: Interesting Research

You want to clearly label your email as a media email—ideally from a specific publication, but if you’re a freelancer and not sure where it will appear, “Media” is just fine. You also want to make the topic of the email clear. Specific keywords that are relevant to their specific research are often helpful. For example, it might be better to include “Penrose process” than just “black hole” in the subject line. A more specific topic is more relevant to them and means your email is more likely to be read.

Dear Dr. So and So ,

Titles can be tricky. On first contact, I always use Dr. (as opposed to Prof.) unless I am positive they don’t have a PhD. If there are three people or fewer, use Drs. If for some reason there are more than three you can address it to “all.” Keep in mind that you generally want to avoid sending a single email to more than 3 or so researchers—things get messy. (One or two really is best.) Make sure to double check that you have spelled their name(s) correctly before sending . INTRODUCTION

My name is Dan Garisto and I’m a freelance science journalist currently on assignment with Such and Such publication writing about [topic of interest] . You want to convey who you are and what you’re knocking on their door about, generally within a sentence or two. Often you’ll want to add a clarifying sentence about the article you’re writing.

In particular, I’m hoping to give readers a glimpse of [topic] from [relatively under-reported angle].

Sometimes, but not always, you’ll want to prove your credentials upfront with the appropriate links.

I’ve previously written about [topic] here, here, and here.

REASON FOR CONTACT

I’m reaching out because of your work on [topic of interest], especially [somewhat recent paper].

In some ways, this is the most important sentence of your entire email . It’s one thing to receive a cold email from a science writer asking to talk; it’s another if they link to a highly specific (and relevant!) paper you published 18 months ago which has 3 citations. Linking to their relevant research demonstrates that you’ve actually done your homework. It’s an investment of your time into them; it shows you have genuine interest. They are so much more likely to respond if you do this.

Another possible reason: I’m emailing because So and So said you were the expert to talk to about [topic]. Slightly less good: Your university bio said you had expertise in [topic] and [related topic].

I was hoping to speak with you about topic.

This is maybe the least important sentence of the entire email. Don’t spend too much time on it. That you want their time is implicit; how you explicitly state that you want it is somewhat less important. That said, a couple variants to keep in mind:

I was wondering if you’d be willing to look over [forthcoming paper from another researcher] and share your thoughts with me . Rather than emailing multiple people, it’s often easier to put this request in the ask. Also a good way to diversify your sources. Would you or someone in your lab/one of your coauthors have time to chat?

LOGISTICS My schedule is pretty flexible later this week and I’m available via Skype/Zoom/phone. Could you let me know if there are any times that work for you?

Be clear about your availability, but on the first email, don’t list every time that you’re available. It’s messy and presumes a bit too much. Sometimes you’re in a crunch. Be upfront about that too.

Unfortunately I’m on deadline and I really need to get a draft to my editor by tomorrow morning or she’ll have my hide. I know this is a tough ask, but would you have time later today?

There are dozens of other permutations here, but the important thing is to remember to be gracious. Nobody owes you their time.

Looking forward to hearing from you .

This one is totally up to you. “Thanks for your time” works just as well.

Best/Sincerely/Cheers/Regards/Toodlepip,

PUTTING IT ALL TOGETHER

Media Inquiry: Interesting Research Dear Dr. So and So , My name is Dan Garisto and I’m a freelance science journalist currently on assignment with Such and Such publication writing about [topic of interest] . In particular, I’m hoping to give readers a glimpse of [topic] from [relatively under-reported angle]. I’m reaching out because of your work on [topic of interest], especially [somewhat recent paper]. I was wondering if you’d be willing to look over [forthcoming paper from another researcher] and share your thoughts with me . My schedule is pretty flexible later this week and I’m available via Skype/Zoom/phone. Could you let me know if there are any times that work for you? Looking forward to hearing from you . Cheers, Dan I’ll update this later if I think of stuff. But for now, that’s it.

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how to write an email to research paper author sample

Research Voyage

Research Tips and Infromation

Email Template for Requesting the Authors for a Copy of the Research Paper

This template you can use as a basis for making a request to authors for a research paper

Subject: Request for Research Paper – [Paper Title] Dear [Author’s Name], I hope this email finds you well. My name is [Your Name], and I am a [Your Position/Role] at [Your Institution/Company]. I recently came across your research paper titled [Paper Title] published in [Journal/Conference/Workshop] and I am very interested in reading your work. I would greatly appreciate it if you could provide me with a copy of the paper or any supplementary materials associated with it. The research you have conducted aligns closely with my current studies/research interests in [mention the specific relevance or connection]. Access to your paper would greatly contribute to my understanding of the field and assist me in my own research endeavours. I understand that you may have constraints or limitations regarding the sharing of the paper, and I assure you that I will strictly adhere to any copyright or licensing restrictions associated with it. I will utilize the paper solely for personal use and educational purposes. If it is possible to provide me with the paper, I would be grateful for the opportunity to read and study it. If there are any associated costs or fees for accessing the paper, please let me know, and I will be happy to discuss the necessary arrangements. Thank you for considering my request. Your work has made a significant impact on the field, and I greatly admire your contributions. I look forward to your response. Best regards, [Your Name] [Your Position/Role] [Your Institution/Company] [Your Email Address] [Your Contact Number] Download the Template for Requesting the Authors for a Copy of the Research Paper Here You can download the template here by entering your details here.

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Email etiquette.

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Begin by stating who you are and why you are writing to them. Make a connection by mentioning shared interests and goals.

Be specific and explain your interests. What aspects of their research fascinate you? What sparked your interest in their topic or area of focus? What motivates your interest in the topic or problem that their research focuses on?

If you’ve been referred by someone, you can mention that as well. State what it is you’re seeking, such as a conversation to discuss their research on ________, or to inquire about opportunities to get involved or assist with their work on ________.

End your email with next steps, such as letting them know what days and times you are typically available and asking if they may be able to meet during those times, or asking if it would be alright if you dropped by their office hours to talk with them further. In the case of professionals outside of the University, you can ask if they would be available for a brief, 20-30 minute phone conversation to discuss their work, which is oftentimes referred to as an informational interview.

  • Keep it concise – Limit your email to essential information only, ideally no more than four to six sentences. Busy faculty members and professionals read emails quickly; a long, detailed email, no matter how well written, will often get ignored. Save the details for follow-up emails and/or conversations.
  • Make your “ask” reasonable – When reaching out to a prospective mentor you do not yet know, asking for a meeting to discuss their research is a reasonable request. Asking whether you can join his/her lab or become his/her research assistant is a big request that should wait until after you’ve had a conversation, which gives both of you the opportunity to assess whether this is a good fit.
  • Maintain formality – Even if you have spoken with this person before, it’s important to always maintain a formal tone and use formal language in an initial email to faculty or professionals. You never know whether your email might be shared or forwarded, so err on the side of formality.
  • Be sincere and genuine – False flattery will not get you far. Only reach out to faculty or other contacts that you have a genuine interest in working with, and never exaggerate or misrepresent your interests.
  • Begin emails with appropriate salutation – This goes back to maintaining formality. Though you may begin your everyday emails with “Hey” or “Hi,” using these informal salutations with faculty or professionals may be off-putting or prevent them from taking you seriously. Always begin with “Dear Dr. [Last Name],” “Dear Professor [Last Name],” or “Dear Mr./Ms. [Last Name].”
  • Professional contact information – At the end of an email, always provide your email address and phone number. The email address you provide should be professional ([email protected] instead of [email protected]). Your voicemail message should also be professional, clearly stating your name and asking callers to please leave a message. Avoid music playing in the background, slang, and informal language in your voicemail message, as these can ruin the professional impression you are trying to make.
  • Referrals – Only give the name of a referral if the person who referred you has instructed you to do so. Providing the name of a referral without their permission is frowned upon. Avoid exaggerating or overstating your connections. For example, stating in your email that “Professor Z recommended I contact you” when in reality Professor Z, in passing, recommended you reach out to faculty members in a particular department to inquire about opportunities, will not get you far in the networking process.
  • Be patient – Don’t expect an instant response. Not everyone maintains a constant connection to their email. If you don’t receive a response within 10 business days (weekends don’t count!) you can send a second email. For the second email, simply resend the same email content, and avoid stating that you’re emailing a second time because you did not receive a response to your first email, as some people may find this offensive. If you don’t receive a response to your second email, either stop in during the faculty member’s office hours to ask your question(s) and begin establishing a relationship, or move on.

For additional guidance from the OUR Peer Research Ambassadors , check out the following Student Research Blog posts:

  • It’s All About the Emails
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  • Getting In Touch: Making Contact With Professors
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Email Templates

Dear Professor _____,

I am a ( class year ) majoring in ( indicate your major, and minor, if applicable ). I read your journal article on ( article topic ) and am very interested in your current research on ( research topic ). I am greatly interested in ( topic ) and was excited to learn of the connection to your work. In particular, I am drawn to ( specific aspect of research ). I would appreciate the opportunity to talk with you further about your research and would welcome any advice you would have for me as an aspiring ( field/topic ) researcher.

I am available for a virtual conversation on Tuesday or Thursday afternoons, any time after 1pm, though I can be flexible to accommodate your schedule. I look forward to hearing from you.

Jonathan Husky [email protected] 860-486-0000

Dear Dr. _____,

I am a ( class year ) majoring in ( major/minor ). I am writing to express interest in your research on ( research topic ). I was excited to read about your latest advance in ( topic ) in UConn Today.

As an aspiring ( career or academic goal ), I have focused my coursework on ( specific topics ). Previous research experiences in ( research background ) have given me a background in ( topic ), but I’ve continued to be drawn towards ( topic connected to their research ). In particular, I was excited by your focus on ( specific topic ).

I would appreciate an opportunity to meet with you ( virtually or in person ) to learn more about your research. My schedule is flexible and I am able to meet at a time that is convenient for you. I look forward to hearing from you.

Sample Emails

My name is Jonathan and I am a first-year undergraduate majoring in _____ and minoring in _____. I’m very interested in your research on _____. I was first introduced to this topic in my senior year of high school when I completed a project on _____ in my _____ class. This semester I’m taking _____ with Dr. _____ and have had a chance to explore this topic from a different angle. Through my readings, I came across your study on _____ and was intrigued by the focus on _____.

I would appreciate the chance to have a conversation with you to learn more about your research on _____. Can I stop by your office hours on Thursdays or is there a better time for us to meet? I’m typically available on Tuesday and Thursday afternoons but can be flexible to fit your schedule. I look forward to hearing from you.

Jonathan Husky University of Connecticut, Class of 20XX email address he/him/his

Dear Dr. _________,

My name is ______ and I am a sophomore, XYZ major interested in your research on ____________. With the rapidly evolving _______, I am intrigued by __________ and how it can impact__________. While exploring this area further in my ABC1000 course, I came across your research on _________ and read your paper on _________, igniting my interest in learning more about ________.

I would appreciate the chance to talk with you more about your current research, your career path, and any advice you may have for me as someone who aspires to contribute to research on ________. Can I set up a time to meet with you in the coming weeks? I’m free on Tuesday and Thursday mornings, as well as Monday afternoons, though can be flexible to fit your availability.

Thank you for considering this request.

Jonathan Husky Email Address University of Connecticut, Class of 20XX

My name is ABC Student and I’m a sophomore majoring in Allied Health Sciences. I was exploring research on_________ when I came across your 20XX paper in ______ on _______. I was intrigued by the impact of _______ on ________, and the overall implications of ______.

I was first introduced to ________ in Dr. Carson’s XYZ1000 course, where we studied ______. I continued to develop my interest by taking _________ and ________, where I expanded my understanding of ____________.

Now, as I look ahead to my Honors thesis, I am exploring options to combine my interest in _______ with my academic background in __________. I would appreciate the opportunity to speak with you to learn more about your research and any advice you may have for me as I plan my next steps and build my knowledge on these topics. Would you be available for a meeting this week or next? I’m typically free on Mondays and Wednesdays until 11am, though can work around your schedule.

I appreciate you considering this request and look forward to hearing from you.

ABC Student email address she/her/hers

Dear Professor ____,

I am a junior majoring in ____. Last year I had the opportunity to study ____ with Professor ___ in her ____ class. I was particularly drawn to the intersection of ____ and ____, and exploring the relationships between _____ and _____. While researching these areas further, I came upon your paper on _____ and was excited to learn about your current research on ____, as this aligns with the direction I want to go with my honors thesis next year.

Would it be possible to set up a meeting to discuss your research? Below I have included my availability for the coming weeks, though I can be flexible to fit with your schedule.  I appreciate your consideration.  Also, look forward to taking your course next semester on _____ and gaining additional insight into ____.

Dear Professor___,

I am fascinated by the molecular biology of stem cells. Recently I read your 20XX paper on the role of microRNAs in the differentiation of muscle stem cells published in ____ journal and found your conclusions to be intriguing. In particular, I found it amazing that __________ can impact _________.

As a junior MCB major, I have developed a strong background in _____ and feel I am now ready to contribute to the field of molecular biology. I would appreciate the opportunity to talk with you more about your current research and the ways in which undergraduate students are able to assist. Would you be available for a meeting in the coming weeks? I am available on Monday and Wednesday afternoons, though can be available at other times to fit with your schedule. I look forward to talking with you soon and learning more about your research.

Jonathan Husky

Email Address, Phone Number

I would also appreciate learning more about the work that ABC Nonprofit is doing to educate the public on _____. Would you be available for a brief phone conversation next Thursday or Friday afternoon? Thank you in advance for your consideration and I hope to speak with you soon.

Sincerely, Jonathan Husky [email protected] 999-999-9999

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How to Email a Professor Regarding Research

Your email should:.

  • have an informative subject line
  • be formal: Dear Dr. Smith; Sincerely, Your Name
  • not use Mrs. or Ms.
  • NOT have slang, abbreviations, or emoticons
  • address any qualifications the professor is looking for
  • demonstrate your experience
  • state specifically your interest in that research group (you need to read the professor's website)
  • explain why research is important for your goals
  • ask to schedule a meeting or say that you will be coming to office hours

DO NOT SEND THIS EMAIL

Generalized from an email to a UCSC Professor

Hi Joe, 

My name is  Name  and I am a major in  Major .  Is there space in your lab for an undergraduate?  If so, what is the pay rate?

Thanks, Name

DO SEND AN EMAIL LIKE THESE

General email to a stem professor.

Subject:  Meeting to discuss undergraduate research opportunities in  topic

Dear Professor   X ,

I am a year  student at university  majoring in major .   How you found out about the professor's research .   Expression of interest in specific paper or topic.   I would appreciate the chance to talk with you about your research in  topic of interest and about possible undergraduate opportunities in your lab.

My  experience in research   experience or class,  confirmed my intention to develop my research skills and goal.  I know you are very busy. We could schedule an appointment or I can drop by your office hours on  day and time .

I have attached my resume and unofficial transcript.  Please let me know if there is any other information I can provide. I look forward to talking to you soon.

________________________________

Generalized from an email to a UCSC professor

Subject:  Possible undergraduate research opportunities

     I am a (year, major) at (university) and I am writing to ask about opportunities for undergraduate research in your lab beginning (time period) . I have conducted undergraduate research on (topic) with (names) in (program or class) . (Expression of interest in the topic) . I would like to continue a path of research on (topic) and would ultimately allow me to (career goal) . I am especially interested in your previous work on (describe a paper or talk) .

I have attached my CV and unofficial transcript to this e-mail, but if there is additional information that I have not included that you would like, I would be happy to provide it to you. Thank you for your consideration.

Your Name Email address 

________________________

From University of Virginia, How to Sucessfully E-mail Professors

Dear Dr. Smith, My name is X  and I'm a second year biology major at UVa. In my introductory and upper-level coursework, I've developed a passion for science and am extremely interested in pursuing independent research as an undergraduate. An extensive research experience will greatly help me consolidate my future career choice. I am personally greatly interested in the molecular biology of stem cells. Recently I read your 2011 paper on the role of microRNAs in the differentiation of muscle stem cells and became fascinated by your work. In particular, I found it amazing that microRNAs can alter the fate of a cell in such a profound way. If possible, I would love to start working on a long-term project in your lab beginning this summer. Would you be available to meet sometime this week to discuss your research? I would also be happy to volunteer in your lab for a few weeks before we commit to anything to see if this is a good match. My transcript and resume are attached in case you are interested. I look forward to hearing from you! Thank you, X

_________________________

Template from UC Irvine

Dear  Professor X :

My name is  Peter Anteater , and I am very interested in becoming involved in research in  Subject Area . I am a  X  year student with a GPA of  X . I have taken  Courses  and  Additional Experiences . My goal is to  Goal .

I have reviewed your faculty profile and am interested in the work that you have done. I was intrigued by your journal article,  "Article Title."  It  Additional Information about Topic . I would like to get involved in research in this area because it will help me to better prepare for  Goals .

Would it be possible to meet with you to further discuss  Topic  and my possible involvement in research? I am available  Days and Times . I look forward to hearing from you.

Sincerely, Peter Anteater Student ID Address  Phone Email

University of California Santa Cruz, 1156 High Street, Santa Cruz, CA 95064

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Tips for Writing an Email to Faculty about Research

For many students, the best way to get involved in research is to email faculty/principle investigators directly to ask about research opportunities. An email is an opportunity to highlight your shared interest in their research topic and to highlight attributes that will make you a good undergraduate researcher to work with. This page will help you write a concise and targeted email to maximize your chance at a reply.

The subject

Be short, but be clear what you are writing about. Something like “Undergraduate Research Opportunities in Your Lab” or “Openings for Undergraduates to do Research in [your research topic]” should work. Do not simply use “Hi” or “Research” as a subject.

The greeting

A formal greeting is always a safe bet, so always address the recipient using a proper title. When contacting faculty or postdoctoral fellows, “Dear Dr. ______,” is appropriate. If you are contacting someone without a doctorate or M.D., use “Dear Mr. ______,” or “Dear Ms.______” If you are unsure, always err on the side of using “Dr.” Never open an e-mail with “To whom it may concern” or any similarly vague phrase.

The main text

In the first line, identify yourself with your year in school and your major or anticipated major as well as your interest in research (e.g., “I’m a sophomore political science and public policy major looking to do research on voting rights in the South.” or “I’m a first year Neuroscience major and hope to get involved in Alzheimer’s research as soon as I can.”). You also want to explain why you why you are contacting this faculty in particular. It helps to mention how you know the recipient or where you got their contact information. If you took a class with them or have spoken with someone doing research with them, say so. If you are contacting them based on their profile on the department website, it is fine to say something like “When lookin for research opportunities in [subject area], I found information about your research on the department’s website.”

Next, explain your specific interest in this faculty’s research . Your goal here is to establish a shared passion for the particular area in which this faculty member conducts research — the more specific, the better. Are there aspects of their research that fascinate you? Do you want to be able to contribute to the understanding of some specific problem or issue? Is there something about your past classwork or research experience that sparked your interest? If there are broader motivations that drive you, include a sentence in your email explaining them. In addition, it can be helpful to pick a recent paper or book they’ve published and read or skim it. You don’t have to sound like an expert, but it helps to mention a recent finding that interests you and possibly ask a good question about their research (e.g., “Is the protein you study also regulated in a cell cycle-dependent manner?”). Be sure to describe any relevant experience or completed courses that would make you well suited to do research with the faculty, but keep in mind your shared interest/passion may be just as important as your background.

One word of caution: you don’t want to make it seem that their lab or their research project is only a stepping stone to the next step in your career (graduate school or medical school) — this might turn off many who are devoted to research and want to recruit students with a shared passion.

Grades and your CV/resume

While grades are certainly not the only factor faculty will consider, you may wish to include your GPA if you feel that it merits mentioning. However, refrain from making it the focal point of a sentence; instead, you can bring it up in the context of wanting some experience outside of class (e.g., “I am enjoying my classes so far and doing well (my GPA is 3.7), but I feel that I will learn a lot more by exploring my interests beyond the classroom”). Similarly, if you have a CV/resume that includes relevant research experience, you may want to include it (e.g., “I’ve attached my resume in case it might be helpful for you to know a bit more about me.”). If your academic qualifications are not as great as you’d hoped (for example, your GPA is on the lower end), you can put off attaching the CV for now and just state that you would be happy to send a CV or any other material if needed.

Concluding sentences and closing

Now you are ready to wrap up with a brief concluding statement. Thank the recipient for their time and ask for an opportunity to meet with them to discuss their research projects and to how to get involved in the type of research they do. A warm but simple closing (“Sincerely,” or “Best regards,”) is fine. It may help to include your email or phone number under your name if you have invited the recipient to contact you.

General considerations and next steps

First, remember to keep the email reasonably short. Two small paragraphs should cover everything you need say. Also, remember to proofread carefully. Spelling and grammar errors will reflect negatively and your attention to detail. Don’t use slang or abbreviations common in texting. Think of the email as something you would turn in for a grade. That said, be yourself! While it is best to be formal, the email does not have to be bland; let some of your personality show through. Lastly, if you don’t receive a reply after about two weeks, it’s okay to follow up by forwarding your original email back to the recipient and politely add “Dear Dr. ______, I’m writing to follow up on my earlier email about research opportunities in [your area of research]. I remain interested in speaking with you about your research if you are able. Thank you in advance for your time and consideration.” Faculty are very busy and your persistence may be appreciated, so it’s even okay to send another follow up email after another few weeks if you don’t hear back. After that, it may be time to move on to other opportunities.

Sample email

Dear Dr. ______,

I am a sophomore Computer Science major, and I am especially interested in your research on artificial intelligence.

With artificial intelligence constantly evolving, I am interested in exploring its true capabilities and how machine learning can improve language processing. While looking for research opportunities to explore my passions within artificial intelligence, I came across your Natural Language Processing Group at UNC. Connecting the capabilities of artificial intelligence and exploring its ability to communicate with human language is very captivating. I am enjoying my classes so far and doing well (My GPA is 4.0), but I am eager to supplement my classroom learning with a research opportunity. I feel that I would be able learn more about artificial intelligence by becoming a part of your research group or a similar project on campus. I’ve attached my resume in case it’s helpful for you to know a bit more about me and my research background.

I would appreciate an opportunity to briefly meet with you or someone in your research group to discuss your research and how I might be able to support your work at some point in the next three years. If you are able to meet with me, please let me know some times you are available to talk. Thank you in advance for your time and consideration, and I look forward to hearing from you.

[include a signature with your Name, Major, Class of 202_]

Physical Sciences Student Affairs Office

Physical Sciences Student Affairs Office

Search form, sample email for inquiring about research.

Dear  Professor X :

My name is  Peter Anteater , and I am very interested in becoming involved in research in  Subject Area . I am a  X  year student with a GPA of  X . I have taken  Courses  and  Additional Experiences . My goal is to  Goal .

I have reviewed your faculty profile and am interested in the work that you have done. I was intrigued by your journal article,  "Article Title."  It  Additional Information about Topic . I would like to get involved in research in this area because it will help me to better prepare for  Goals .

Would it be possible to meet with you to further discuss  Topic  and my possible involvement in research? I am available  Days and Times . I look forward to hearing from you.

Sincerely,  Peter Anteater  Student ID  Address  Phone  E-mail

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Sample Responses to Letters from Journal Editors

how to write an email to research paper author sample

Table of Contents (Guide To Publication)

Appendix: sample responses to letters from academic and scientific editors.

Each letter to an editor is unique, so the following letters are only examples, but they will provide you with ideas about how to format and word your own replies to academic and scientific editors. The letters are completely fictional, with invented names and situations. The complete addresses may not be necessary if you’re communicating with an editor via email, as is so often the case these days, but I’ve included them to show the layout of a formal letter. For your own mailing address, it would be best to use university or department letterhead if available and provide your personal name, phone number and email address beneath the letterhead.

how to write an email to research paper author sample

The first letter (A.1) posits that the editor is interested in the article and thinks it appropriate for the journal, but has pointed out a number of problems with the formatting, structure and referencing style of the paper as the reason for not accepting it. Whether or not the paper will be reconsidered or accepted if the necessary revisions are done remains uncertain, so the letter aims to confirm that the paper will be seriously reconsidered and ideally accepted if the necessary changes are made. It does this by thanking the editor for his helpful advice, indicating that the author understands the problems and is in the process of correcting them, and asking whether the editor would like to reconsider the paper for publication.

how to write an email to research paper author sample

Assuming that the first letter received a positive response, the second letter (A.2) is designed to accompany the revised paper once all the necessary changes to formatting, structure and referencing have been made. It explains exactly what’s been done to correct the problems, addressing all of the concerns about the format, structure and references raised by the editor. It also explains one change that may prove problematic and offers an alternative solution. Finally, it verifies that a professional proofreader has checked the article and indicates a willingness on the part of the author to make any further changes that may be necessary to facilitate successful publication.

how to write an email to research paper author sample

Download Word Version of Letter A1

Letter a.1: earning or confirming serious reconsideration or conditional acceptance.

Dr Sandra Jones Department of Social Sciences University of the Pacific Coast P.O. Box 101 Salmon Cove, British Columbia V2K 3L4 Canada (609) 741-8955 [email protected]

Mr Reginald Smith, Editor Journal of Changing Weather P.O. Box 707 River Rapids, Oregon 76545 USA (972) 861-9805 [email protected]

March 3, 2020

Dear Mr Smith,

Thank you for your letter regarding my manuscript entitled “Effect of Changing Weather Patterns on Home Insurance Policies: Clients Left Out in the Cold?” I’m delighted that you’re interested in the paper and think it might be appropriate for the Journal of Changing Weather .

I very much appreciate the time and effort you’ve put into your comments. Your advice about the formatting, structure and referencing style of my paper is most helpful. I’ve looked over the Journal of Changing Weather author guidelines again and see exactly where I’ve gone wrong and what changes need to be made. Once I’ve made the necessary revisions, I plan to have the paper professionally proofread to ensure that I’ve met all the requirements consistently.

However, I remain unsure about whether you’re willing to reconsider the article once the necessary changes have been made, so I’m hoping you can confirm that you’d like me to send you the revised paper for reconsideration or publication. I’ve begun working on the revisions already and will be able to return the article to you within a couple of weeks.

With thanks for your time and assistance,

[sign here for a formal letter]

Sandra Jones

Download Word Version of Letter A2

Letter a.2: resubmitting a paper after necessary revisions have been made.

March 15, 2020

Further to our correspondence a couple of weeks ago, I’m attaching the revised version of my article entitled “Effect of Changing Weather Patterns on Home Insurance Policies: Clients Left Out in the Cold?” I have now completed all of the changes you requested:

  • The numerical style of in-text referencing has been changed to author-date referencing in APA style.
  • The list of references has been arranged alphabetically by the last names of authors instead of numerically, and other changes to conform to APA style have been made to the references.
  • The article has been restructured to include separate Limitations and Conclusions sections.
  • All headings and subheadings have been adjusted to conform to the requirements indicated in the Journal of Changing Weather author guidelines, including the removal of numbers.
  • All nonstandard abbreviations and acronyms used in the paper have been defined on first use and used consistently thereafter.
  • Abbreviations used in each table have been defined in a note at the bottom of the table.
  • The vertical rules/lines have been removed from all three tables.
  • The tables are now attached as a separate file instead of embedded in the paper.

I should mention, however, that Table 3 seems a little crowded without the vertical lines separating the information in the columns, and I’m concerned that the presentation may not be as clear as it was with the lines. I see that the guidelines indicate that tables should be on a vertical/portrait page, but I also notice that a few articles in the printed version of the Journal of Changing Weather feature tables on a horizontal/landscape page, so perhaps that would be a good layout for increasing the clarity of Table 3. I’m certainly open to any suggestions you have for this table.

I’m also attaching a certificate from Proof-Reading-Service.com verifying that the article has been professionally proofread with special attention to meeting the Journal of Changing Weather author guidelines for formatting, structure and referencing.

I hope that the changes I’ve made resolve all your concerns about the article. I’m more than happy to make any further changes that will improve the paper and/or facilitate successful publication.

Thank you once again for your time and interest. I look forward to hearing from you.

how to write an email to research paper author sample

This article is part of a book called Guide to Academic and Scientific Publication: How To Get Your Writing Published in Scholarly Journals . It provides practical advice on planning, preparing and submitting articles for publication in scholarly journals.

how to write an email to research paper author sample

Whether you are looking for information on designing an academic or scientific article, constructing a scholarly argument, targeting the right journal, following journal guidelines with precision, providing accurate and complete references, writing correct and elegant scholarly English, communicating with journal editors or revising your paper in light of that communication, you will find guidance, tips and examples in this manual.

how to write an email to research paper author sample

This book is focusing on sound scholarly principles and practices as well as the expectations and requirements of academic and scientific journals, this guide is suitable for use in a wide variety of disciplines, including Economics, Engineering, the Humanities, Law, Management, Mathematics, Medicine and the Social, Physical and Biological Sciences .

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How to Write a Professional Email: How to email a research professor

  • How to write a email letter of recommendation
  • How to email a research professor
  • "I missed class" example
  • "Help on lecture information" example

Waht it should contain

Your email should:

  • Have an informative subject line
  • Be formal: Dear Dr. Smith; Sincerely, Your Name
  • not use Mrs. or Ms.
  • NOT have slang, abbreviations, or emoticons
  • If applying for an opening:
  • Address any qualifications the professor is looking for
  • Demonstrate your experience

When asking for a research opportunity: state specifically your interest in that research group (you need to read the professor's website) explain why research is important for your goals ask to schedule a meeting or say that you will be coming to office hours

DO NOT SEND THIS EMAIL

Subject: Research Job Op

Hi Joe, 

My name is Name and I am a major in Major.  Is there space in your lab for an undergraduate?  If so, what is the pay rate and the hours?

Thanks, Name

DO SEND THIS EMAIL

Subject:  Possible undergraduate research opportunities

Dear Dr. Professor,I am a (year, major) at (university) and I am writing to ask about opportunities for undergraduate research in your lab beginning (time period). I have conducted undergraduate research on (topic) with (names) in (program or class). (Expression of interest in the topic). I would like to continue a path of research on (topic) and would ultimately allow me to (career goal). I am especially interested in your previous work on (describe a paper or talk).

I have attached my CV and unofficial transcript to this e-mail, but if there is additional information that I have not included that you would like, I would be happy to provide it to you. Thank you for your consideration.

Ambitous Student Email address 

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How to write a cover letter for journal submission

Download our cover letter template.

When you submit your article to a journal, you often need to include a cover letter. This is a great opportunity to highlight to the journal editor what makes your research new and important. The cover letter should explain why your work is perfect for their journal and why it will be of interest to the journal’s readers.

how to write an email to research paper author sample

When writing for publication, a well-written cover letter can help your paper reach the next stage of the manuscript submission process – being sent out for  peer review . So it’s worth spending time thinking about how to write a cover letter to the journal editor, to make sure it’s going to be effective.

To help you, we’ve put together a guide to explain how to write a cover letter for journal article submission. You will receive cover letter instructions of what you should include and what you shouldn’t, and a word template cover letter.

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What should my cover letter include?

Before you start to write, please check the  instructions for authors  (IFAs) of your chosen journal, as not all journals will require one. You should also check the IFAs for any journal specific information on what to include. This may include a list of relevant articles written by you or your co-authors that have been or are currently being considered for publication in other journals.

Key points to include in your letter to the editor:

Editor’s name (you can usually find this on the journal page on  Taylor & Francis Online ).

Your manuscript’s title.

Name of the journal you are submitting to.

Statement that your paper has not been previously published and is not currently under consideration by another journal.

Brief description of the research you are reporting in your paper, why it is important, and why you think the readers of the journal would be interested in it.

Contact information for you and any  co-authors .

Confirmation that you have no  competing interests  to disclose.

how to write an email to research paper author sample

Things to avoid:

Don’t copy your abstract into your cover letter, instead explain in your own words the significance of the work, the problem that is being addressed, and why the manuscript belongs in the journal.

Don’t use too much jargon or too many acronyms, keep language straightforward and easy to read.

Avoid too much detail – keep your cover letter to a maximum of one page, as an introduction and brief overview.

Avoid any spelling and grammar errors and ensure your letter is thoroughly proofed before submitting.

Key information for cover letter

Click to enlarge your PDF on key information to include in your cover letter .

Cover letter template

If you need further help to write a cover letter for a journal, you can download and use our sample template as a guide.

how to write an email to research paper author sample

You might find that the submission system for your chosen journal requires your cover letter to be submitted into a text box rather than as a separate document, but it is still a good idea to write a draft first to make sure you have included everything.

Always make sure to check the journal’s  instructions for authors  for any specific additional information to include.

Submission ready

Use our submission checklist  to make sure you’ve included everything you need to.

If you need more guidance, take a look at our other  information and resources to help you make your submission .

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Rapid constructive feedback

Consider the Taylor & Francis Rapid Technical Review service to help you meet your deadline, through peer-review-like comments on your manuscript.

Related resources

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Sample Email Templates for Requesting Scale Permission in Research

Table of Contents

Here in this post, we are discussing  “ Sample Email Templates for Requesting Scale Permission in Research”.   You can read more about  psychology -related material on our website. Keep visiting  Psychology Roots .

If you are planning to use a psychology scale in your research study, it is important to seek permission from the scale developer. Not only is it a professional and ethical practice, it is also necessary to avoid copyright violations.

Writing an email to request permission to use a scale can be intimidating, especially if you are not sure what to include or how to structure your request. That’s why we’ve put together a list of sample email templates to help you craft the perfect request. These templates cover a range of scenarios and include tips on what to include in your email, as well as what to avoid.

Whether you are a graduate student just starting out in research or an experienced researcher looking for guidance on how to request scale permission, these sample emails will provide you with the tools you need to make your request in a professional and effective manner.

Sample Email Templates for Requesting Scale Permission in Research

Email Template 01

Dear [Scale Developer],

I am writing to request permission to use the [Scale Name] in my research study. My study aims to investigate [Research Topic] and I believe that the [Scale Name] is an ideal tool for measuring [ Construct being measured].

I would be very grateful if you could grant me permission to use the scale in my study and to include it in any resulting publications. I am committed to properly citing and acknowledging your work in all materials related to my study.

I understand that the [Scale Name] is copyrighted and I assure you that it will only be used for the purpose of my research. Thank you for considering my request. I look forward to your response.

Sincerely, [Your Name]

Email Template 02

I am writing to request permission to use the [Scale Name] in my research study on [Research Topic]. I believe that the [Scale Name] is an excellent tool for measuring [ Construct being measured] and would be a valuable addition to my study.

In addition to requesting permission to use the scale, I would also like to ask if it would be possible to obtain a copy of the scale in its original format. I understand that the scale is copyrighted, and I assure you that it will only be used for the purpose of my research study.

I would be happy to provide proper attribution and acknowledgement of your work in any publications or presentations resulting from my study. Thank you for considering my request. I look forward to your response.

Email Template 03

I am reaching out to request permission to use the [Scale Name] in my upcoming research study. The purpose of my study is to investigate [Research Topic] and I believe that the [Scale Name] would be an excellent tool for measuring [ Construct being measured].

I would be grateful if you could grant me permission to use the scale in my study and to include it in any resulting publications or presentations. I am happy to provide proper attribution and acknowledgement of your work in any materials related to my study.

Thank you for considering my request. I look forward to your response.

Email Template 04

I am writing to request permission to use the [Scale Name] in my research study. My study is examining [Research Topic] and I believe that the [Scale Name] would be a valuable tool for measuring [ Construct being measured].

I would like to request permission to use the scale in my study and to include it in any publications resulting from the study. I would also be happy to acknowledge your work and the use of the scale in any publications or presentations.

Help Us Improve This Article

Have you discovered an inaccuracy? We put out great effort to give accurate and scientifically trustworthy information to our readers. Please notify us if you discover any typographical or grammatical errors. Make a comment. We acknowledge and appreciate your efforts.

Share With Us

If you have any scale or any material related to  psychology  kindly share it with us at  [email protected] . We help others on behalf of you.

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Methodology

  • How to Write a Literature Review | Guide, Examples, & Templates

How to Write a Literature Review | Guide, Examples, & Templates

Published on January 2, 2023 by Shona McCombes . Revised on September 11, 2023.

What is a literature review? A literature review is a survey of scholarly sources on a specific topic. It provides an overview of current knowledge, allowing you to identify relevant theories, methods, and gaps in the existing research that you can later apply to your paper, thesis, or dissertation topic .

There are five key steps to writing a literature review:

  • Search for relevant literature
  • Evaluate sources
  • Identify themes, debates, and gaps
  • Outline the structure
  • Write your literature review

A good literature review doesn’t just summarize sources—it analyzes, synthesizes , and critically evaluates to give a clear picture of the state of knowledge on the subject.

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Table of contents

What is the purpose of a literature review, examples of literature reviews, step 1 – search for relevant literature, step 2 – evaluate and select sources, step 3 – identify themes, debates, and gaps, step 4 – outline your literature review’s structure, step 5 – write your literature review, free lecture slides, other interesting articles, frequently asked questions, introduction.

  • Quick Run-through
  • Step 1 & 2

When you write a thesis , dissertation , or research paper , you will likely have to conduct a literature review to situate your research within existing knowledge. The literature review gives you a chance to:

  • Demonstrate your familiarity with the topic and its scholarly context
  • Develop a theoretical framework and methodology for your research
  • Position your work in relation to other researchers and theorists
  • Show how your research addresses a gap or contributes to a debate
  • Evaluate the current state of research and demonstrate your knowledge of the scholarly debates around your topic.

Writing literature reviews is a particularly important skill if you want to apply for graduate school or pursue a career in research. We’ve written a step-by-step guide that you can follow below.

Literature review guide

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Writing literature reviews can be quite challenging! A good starting point could be to look at some examples, depending on what kind of literature review you’d like to write.

  • Example literature review #1: “Why Do People Migrate? A Review of the Theoretical Literature” ( Theoretical literature review about the development of economic migration theory from the 1950s to today.)
  • Example literature review #2: “Literature review as a research methodology: An overview and guidelines” ( Methodological literature review about interdisciplinary knowledge acquisition and production.)
  • Example literature review #3: “The Use of Technology in English Language Learning: A Literature Review” ( Thematic literature review about the effects of technology on language acquisition.)
  • Example literature review #4: “Learners’ Listening Comprehension Difficulties in English Language Learning: A Literature Review” ( Chronological literature review about how the concept of listening skills has changed over time.)

You can also check out our templates with literature review examples and sample outlines at the links below.

Download Word doc Download Google doc

Before you begin searching for literature, you need a clearly defined topic .

If you are writing the literature review section of a dissertation or research paper, you will search for literature related to your research problem and questions .

Make a list of keywords

Start by creating a list of keywords related to your research question. Include each of the key concepts or variables you’re interested in, and list any synonyms and related terms. You can add to this list as you discover new keywords in the process of your literature search.

  • Social media, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Snapchat, TikTok
  • Body image, self-perception, self-esteem, mental health
  • Generation Z, teenagers, adolescents, youth

Search for relevant sources

Use your keywords to begin searching for sources. Some useful databases to search for journals and articles include:

  • Your university’s library catalogue
  • Google Scholar
  • Project Muse (humanities and social sciences)
  • Medline (life sciences and biomedicine)
  • EconLit (economics)
  • Inspec (physics, engineering and computer science)

You can also use boolean operators to help narrow down your search.

Make sure to read the abstract to find out whether an article is relevant to your question. When you find a useful book or article, you can check the bibliography to find other relevant sources.

You likely won’t be able to read absolutely everything that has been written on your topic, so it will be necessary to evaluate which sources are most relevant to your research question.

For each publication, ask yourself:

  • What question or problem is the author addressing?
  • What are the key concepts and how are they defined?
  • What are the key theories, models, and methods?
  • Does the research use established frameworks or take an innovative approach?
  • What are the results and conclusions of the study?
  • How does the publication relate to other literature in the field? Does it confirm, add to, or challenge established knowledge?
  • What are the strengths and weaknesses of the research?

Make sure the sources you use are credible , and make sure you read any landmark studies and major theories in your field of research.

You can use our template to summarize and evaluate sources you’re thinking about using. Click on either button below to download.

Take notes and cite your sources

As you read, you should also begin the writing process. Take notes that you can later incorporate into the text of your literature review.

It is important to keep track of your sources with citations to avoid plagiarism . It can be helpful to make an annotated bibliography , where you compile full citation information and write a paragraph of summary and analysis for each source. This helps you remember what you read and saves time later in the process.

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To begin organizing your literature review’s argument and structure, be sure you understand the connections and relationships between the sources you’ve read. Based on your reading and notes, you can look for:

  • Trends and patterns (in theory, method or results): do certain approaches become more or less popular over time?
  • Themes: what questions or concepts recur across the literature?
  • Debates, conflicts and contradictions: where do sources disagree?
  • Pivotal publications: are there any influential theories or studies that changed the direction of the field?
  • Gaps: what is missing from the literature? Are there weaknesses that need to be addressed?

This step will help you work out the structure of your literature review and (if applicable) show how your own research will contribute to existing knowledge.

  • Most research has focused on young women.
  • There is an increasing interest in the visual aspects of social media.
  • But there is still a lack of robust research on highly visual platforms like Instagram and Snapchat—this is a gap that you could address in your own research.

There are various approaches to organizing the body of a literature review. Depending on the length of your literature review, you can combine several of these strategies (for example, your overall structure might be thematic, but each theme is discussed chronologically).

Chronological

The simplest approach is to trace the development of the topic over time. However, if you choose this strategy, be careful to avoid simply listing and summarizing sources in order.

Try to analyze patterns, turning points and key debates that have shaped the direction of the field. Give your interpretation of how and why certain developments occurred.

If you have found some recurring central themes, you can organize your literature review into subsections that address different aspects of the topic.

For example, if you are reviewing literature about inequalities in migrant health outcomes, key themes might include healthcare policy, language barriers, cultural attitudes, legal status, and economic access.

Methodological

If you draw your sources from different disciplines or fields that use a variety of research methods , you might want to compare the results and conclusions that emerge from different approaches. For example:

  • Look at what results have emerged in qualitative versus quantitative research
  • Discuss how the topic has been approached by empirical versus theoretical scholarship
  • Divide the literature into sociological, historical, and cultural sources

Theoretical

A literature review is often the foundation for a theoretical framework . You can use it to discuss various theories, models, and definitions of key concepts.

You might argue for the relevance of a specific theoretical approach, or combine various theoretical concepts to create a framework for your research.

Like any other academic text , your literature review should have an introduction , a main body, and a conclusion . What you include in each depends on the objective of your literature review.

The introduction should clearly establish the focus and purpose of the literature review.

Depending on the length of your literature review, you might want to divide the body into subsections. You can use a subheading for each theme, time period, or methodological approach.

As you write, you can follow these tips:

  • Summarize and synthesize: give an overview of the main points of each source and combine them into a coherent whole
  • Analyze and interpret: don’t just paraphrase other researchers — add your own interpretations where possible, discussing the significance of findings in relation to the literature as a whole
  • Critically evaluate: mention the strengths and weaknesses of your sources
  • Write in well-structured paragraphs: use transition words and topic sentences to draw connections, comparisons and contrasts

In the conclusion, you should summarize the key findings you have taken from the literature and emphasize their significance.

When you’ve finished writing and revising your literature review, don’t forget to proofread thoroughly before submitting. Not a language expert? Check out Scribbr’s professional proofreading services !

This article has been adapted into lecture slides that you can use to teach your students about writing a literature review.

Scribbr slides are free to use, customize, and distribute for educational purposes.

Open Google Slides Download PowerPoint

If you want to know more about the research process , methodology , research bias , or statistics , make sure to check out some of our other articles with explanations and examples.

  • Sampling methods
  • Simple random sampling
  • Stratified sampling
  • Cluster sampling
  • Likert scales
  • Reproducibility

 Statistics

  • Null hypothesis
  • Statistical power
  • Probability distribution
  • Effect size
  • Poisson distribution

Research bias

  • Optimism bias
  • Cognitive bias
  • Implicit bias
  • Hawthorne effect
  • Anchoring bias
  • Explicit bias

A literature review is a survey of scholarly sources (such as books, journal articles, and theses) related to a specific topic or research question .

It is often written as part of a thesis, dissertation , or research paper , in order to situate your work in relation to existing knowledge.

There are several reasons to conduct a literature review at the beginning of a research project:

  • To familiarize yourself with the current state of knowledge on your topic
  • To ensure that you’re not just repeating what others have already done
  • To identify gaps in knowledge and unresolved problems that your research can address
  • To develop your theoretical framework and methodology
  • To provide an overview of the key findings and debates on the topic

Writing the literature review shows your reader how your work relates to existing research and what new insights it will contribute.

The literature review usually comes near the beginning of your thesis or dissertation . After the introduction , it grounds your research in a scholarly field and leads directly to your theoretical framework or methodology .

A literature review is a survey of credible sources on a topic, often used in dissertations , theses, and research papers . Literature reviews give an overview of knowledge on a subject, helping you identify relevant theories and methods, as well as gaps in existing research. Literature reviews are set up similarly to other  academic texts , with an introduction , a main body, and a conclusion .

An  annotated bibliography is a list of  source references that has a short description (called an annotation ) for each of the sources. It is often assigned as part of the research process for a  paper .  

Cite this Scribbr article

If you want to cite this source, you can copy and paste the citation or click the “Cite this Scribbr article” button to automatically add the citation to our free Citation Generator.

McCombes, S. (2023, September 11). How to Write a Literature Review | Guide, Examples, & Templates. Scribbr. Retrieved June 7, 2024, from https://www.scribbr.com/dissertation/literature-review/

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Shona McCombes

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how to write an email to research paper author sample

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Examples

Research Paper Cover Letter

Cover letter maker.

how to write an email to research paper author sample

A research paper cover letter is more than just an introductory note; it’s a vital aspect of your submission to academic journals. This document provides the initial impression and encapsulates the essence of your research. In this article, we will delve into what a research paper cover letter is, provide an illustrative example, and share valuable tips for crafting one that resonates with the editors.

What is a Research Paper Cover Letter?

A research paper cover letter is a formal letter accompanying the submission of a research paper to a journal or academic conference. It’s your opportunity to introduce the paper, briefly summarize the findings, highlight the significance, and persuade the editor or review panel about the paper’s importance. It’s a critical aspect of the submission process, reflecting the paper’s quality and your professionalism, so it must be thoughtfully composed.

What is an Example of a Research Paper Cover Letter?

Here is a comprehensive example of a research paper cover letter:

[Your Name] [Your Address] [City, State ZIP Code] [Email Address] [Phone Number] [Date]

[Editor’s Name] [Title] [Journal Name] [Address] [City, State ZIP Code]

Subject: Submission of Manuscript – “Exploring the Impact of AI on Environmental Sustainability”

Dear [Editor’s Name],

I am honored to submit my manuscript entitled “Exploring the Impact of AI on Environmental Sustainability” for consideration for publication in [Journal Name]. This research offers groundbreaking insights into how artificial intelligence can be harnessed for sustainable development.

The methodology includes comprehensive analysis and experimentation, and the results reveal promising opportunities in utilizing AI for ecological balance. The findings contribute to the broader understanding of technology’s role in environmental stewardship, filling a significant gap in existing literature.

I confirm that this work is original, has not been published elsewhere, and complies with all ethical guidelines. Enclosed are the manuscript, diagrams, tables, and supplementary materials as per your submission criteria.

I appreciate your consideration of this submission and eagerly await the opportunity to contribute to [Journal Name]. Please feel free to contact me for any further information.

[Your Signature]

[Your Typed Name] [Your Affiliation]

This great cover letter example articulates the crucial elements that make up an effective research paper cover letter. It introduces the topic, succinctly outlines the key points, and concludes with a respectful closure. Customizing such a letter according to the specific journal or conference’s guidelines is essential for a successful submission.

Research Paper Cover Letter

Size: 28 KB

Research Paper Cover Letter Format

Navigate the nuances of academic presentation with our Research Paper Cover Letter Format, designed to make your scholarly work stand out with professionalism and clarity.

[Your Name] [Address] [City, State ZIP Code] [Email Address] [Date]

[Editor’s Name] [Title] [Journal Name] [Address] [City, State ZIP Code]

Subject: Submission of Manuscript: “[Title of the Research Paper]”

I am pleased to submit my manuscript entitled “[Title of the Research Paper]” for potential publication in [Journal Name]. The research embodied in this paper investigates [provide a brief but comprehensive overview of the research topic, methodology, and significance].

This manuscript has not been published elsewhere and has not been submitted simultaneously for publication elsewhere. I believe that the insights and evidence presented in this paper provide a valuable contribution to the existing body of work in [specify the field or subject area].

Thank you for considering my submission. I look forward to hearing from you soon.

Sincerely, [Your Name] [Your Title] [Your Phone Number] [Your Affiliation]

Research Paper Cover Letter Format

Size: 27 KB

Sample Research Paper Cover Letter Example

Access our comprehensive Sample Research Paper Cover Letter to guide your submissions, ensuring they align with academic expectations and standards.

[Your Full Name] [Your Address] [City, State, ZIP Code] [Phone Number] [Email Address] [Date]

[Professor’s Full Name] [Title] [Department] [University Name] [Address] [City, State, ZIP Code]

Subject: Submission of Research Paper on [Title]

Dear Professor [Last Name],

I am honored to submit my research paper titled “[Title of the Research Paper]” for evaluation. This paper, a key part of my [Degree Name], provides an in-depth analysis of [briefly explain the subject matter, highlighting the key themes, questions, and methodology].

Under your guidance and supervision, I have meticulously crafted this paper to reflect the highest standards of academic rigor. I am grateful for the insights and feedback you have provided throughout this process.

I look forward to your review and comments, and I am available for a meeting to discuss the paper at your convenience.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Best Regards, [Your Full Name] [Your Student ID]

Sample Research Paper Cover Letter Example

APA Style Research Paper Cover Letter Example

Master the intricacies of the APA format with our specialized cover letter, crafted to showcase your research while adhering to this authoritative style guide.

[Author’s Full Name] [Author’s Affiliation] [City, State] [Phone Number] [Email Address] [Date]

[Editor’s Name] [Title] [Journal’s Name] [Address] [City, State ZIP Code]

Subject: Submission of APA Style Research Paper: “[Title of the Paper]”

I am writing to submit my research paper for consideration in the [Journal’s Name]. The paper, titled “[Title of the Paper],” strictly adheres to the APA citation style and presents a methodological approach to [explain the central theme of the paper].

The enclosed manuscript highlights the [mention key findings, implications, or innovations]. I believe it will resonate well with the readers of [Journal’s Name] and contribute to the ongoing scholarly discourse in the field of [Field of Study].

Please find attached the manuscript along with all supplementary materials. I appreciate your consideration and await your feedback.

Sincerely, [Author’s Full Name] [Author’s Title] [Author’s Affiliation]

APA Style Research Paper Cover Letter Example

Size: 26 KB

Cover Letter for Research Project Example

Elevate your project proposals with our tailored cover letter, emphasizing the significance, methodology, and expected outcomes of your academic research.

[Your Name] [Address] [City, State ZIP Code] [Email Address] [Phone Number] [Date]

[Project Coordinator’s Name] [Title] [Organization Name] [Address] [City, State ZIP Code]

Subject: Application for [Project Title] Research Project

Dear [Project Coordinator’s Name],

I am writing to express my keen interest in the [Project Title] research project at [Organization Name]. With a strong background in [Your Field], I believe that my skills and experiences align perfectly with the project’s objectives.

I have attached my research proposal, CV, and other relevant documents for your review. My proposal outlines my approach to [briefly summarize the main focus of the research project].

Thank you for considering my application. I am eager to contribute my expertise to this exciting project and look forward to the opportunity to discuss my proposal further.

Yours sincerely, [Your Name] [Your Title] [Your Affiliation]

Cover Letter for Research Project Example

Research Paper Cover Letter for Student Example

Enhance your academic submissions with our student-focused cover letter, designed to highlight your research diligence, hypotheses, and learning objectives.

[Student’s Full Name] [Address] [City, State ZIP Code] [Email Address] [Date]

[Professor’s Full Name] [Title] [Department] [University Name] [Address] [City, State ZIP Code]

Subject: Submission of Research Paper on [Topic]

I am thrilled to submit my research paper on [Topic] as part of the requirements for [Course Name]. Through rigorous analysis, innovative methodologies, and critical thinking, I have explored [briefly summarize the subject matter of the paper].

I value the insights and guidance you provided during my research and writing process. The knowledge I gained from this experience has greatly enhanced my understanding of [Field of Study].

Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to your feedback.

Sincerely, [Student’s Full Name] [Student ID] [Course Name]

Research Paper Cover Letter for Student Example

Research Paper Cover Letter for Thesis Example

Add finesse to your thesis presentation with our dedicated cover letter, underlining the depth, originality, and significance of your pivotal research.

[Your Full Name] [Address] [City, State ZIP Code] [Phone Number] [Email Address] [Date]

[Thesis Advisor’s Full Name] [Title] [Department] [University Name] [Address] [City, State ZIP Code]

Subject: Submission of Thesis Research Paper on [Topic]

Dear Dr. [Last Name],

It is with great anticipation that I submit my thesis research paper on [Topic]. This comprehensive study, guided by your expert mentorship, has been both challenging and rewarding.

I have delved deeply into [explain the central theme, methodology, and findings], aiming to contribute valuable insights to the field of [Field of Study].

Enclosed are my thesis, along with all supporting documents. I appreciate your attention to this work, and I am eager to discuss it further at your convenience.

Thank you for your time, support, and guidance.

Best Regards, [Your Full Name] [Your Student ID] [Degree Program]

Research Paper Cover Letter for Thesis Example

Cover Letter for Journal Submission Example

Ensure your scholarly work is compellingly presented with our Journal Submission Cover Letter, tailored to captivate editors and facilitate publication.

[Your Full Name] [Title] [Address] [City, State ZIP Code] [Email Address] [Phone Number] [Date]

[Editor’s Full Name] [Title] [Journal Name] [Address] [City, State ZIP Code]

Subject: Manuscript Submission for [Journal Name]: “[Title of Research Paper]”

Dear Dr. [Editor’s Last Name],

I am pleased to submit my manuscript, titled “[Title of Research Paper],” for potential publication in [Journal Name]. This original research contributes to the field of [Field of Study] by [provide a concise overview of the paper’s central theme, methodology, and key findings].

I have followed all the guidelines provided by [Journal Name] and have included all necessary supplementary materials.

Thank you for considering my submission. I believe this research fits well with the focus of your esteemed journal, and I look forward to your response.

Sincerely, [Your Full Name] [Your Title] [Your Affiliation]

Cover Letter for Journal Submission Example

Simple Research Paper Cover Letter Example

Go for a minimalist yet impactful approach with our Simple Research Paper Cover Letter, designed to present your findings clearly and concisely.

[Recipient’s Full Name] [Title] [Organization Name] [Address] [City, State ZIP Code]

Subject: Submission of Research Paper: “[Title]”

Dear [Recipient’s First Name],

I am delighted to submit my research paper on [Title]. This paper, written as part of my [Degree/Course], provides a comprehensive analysis of [briefly summarize the research topic and methodology].

I have enclosed the paper and all necessary supporting documents. Your review and feedback will be greatly appreciated.

Best Regards, [Your Full Name] [Your Title] [Your Affiliation]

Simple Research Paper Cover Letter Example

Basic Research Paper Cover Letter Example

Use our Basic Research Paper Cover Letter as a foundational guide, offering a straightforward presentation of your academic research and its implications.

[Your Full Name] [Address] [City, State ZIP Code] [Email Address] [Date]

Subject: Manuscript Submission: “[Title]”

I am submitting my manuscript titled “[Title]” for your review. This research paper delves into [briefly describe the research topic, key questions, methodology, and significance].

Enclosed are the manuscript and all necessary supporting documents. I look forward to your feedback and hope for a positive consideration.

Thank you for your time.

Basic Research Paper Cover Letter Example

Professional Research Paper Cover Letter Example

Elevate your academic submissions with a touch of professionalism using our expertly crafted cover letter, emphasizing your research’s significance, methodology, and scholarly contribution.

Subject: Professional Submission of Research Paper: “[Research Paper Title]”

I am pleased to submit my research paper, titled “[Research Paper Title],” for professional review and potential publication in [Journal Name]. This work represents a rigorous investigation into [provide a detailed overview of the research subject, methodology, key findings, and implications].

I believe this research paper meets the high standards of your esteemed journal and will engage and inform your readership.

Please find attached the manuscript, along with all necessary supporting documents. I look forward to your review and response.

Yours Professionally, [Your Full Name] [Your Title] [Your Affiliation] [Your Phone Number]

Professional Research Paper Cover Letter Example

What do you write in a Research Paper Cover Letter?

A Research Paper Cover Letter serves as a formal introduction of your research to the editor, professor, or other relevant authority. It highlights key aspects of your research and reflects your professionalism. Here’s what you typically include:

1. Introduction: Introduce yourself, the title of the paper, and the purpose of the cover letter. 2. Subject of Research: Briefly explain the research topic, methodology, and main findings. 3. Relevance: Discuss the significance of your research and why it is suitable for the intended audience or journal. 4. Compliance with Guidelines: Mention adherence to the submission guidelines or specific style, like APA. 5. Exclusivity: If submitting to a journal, state that the work has not been published elsewhere. 6. Attachments: List the documents you are attaching, including the manuscript and supplementary materials. 7. Gratitude and Closing: Thank the recipient for their consideration and provide your contact information.

How Do You Write a Cover Letter for a Research Paper?

Writing a cover letter for a research paper requires care and precision. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Address the Recipient Formally: Use the proper title and full name if known. If not, use a general salutation. 2. Introduce Yourself and Your Paper: Start with a concise introduction to your research and its relevance. 3. Provide a Brief Overview: Summarize the key points, methodology, and findings of your research. 4. Highlight the Significance: Explain why the paper is important and how it contributes to the field. 5. Follow Guidelines: If submitting to a journal or specific conference, adhere to their guidelines and mention your compliance. 6. Use Professional Tone and Language: Keep the language formal, clear, and error-free. 7. Include Contact Information: Provide your email, phone number, and other relevant contact details. 8. Sign Off Formally: Close with a polite and professional sign-off, such as “Sincerely,” followed by your name.

Tips for Writing a Research Paper Cover Letter

1. Understand Your Audience: Tailor the cover letter to the recipient, whether it’s a journal editor, professor, or other authority. 2. Be Concise: Keep it brief while including all necessary details. 3. Highlight Key Points: Focus on the most critical and unique aspects of your research. 4. Follow a Structure: Use a clear and organized format with distinct sections. 5. Proofread: Ensure that your cover letter is free of grammatical errors and typos. 6. Maintain Professionalism: Use a respectful tone and formal language throughout. 7. Align with the Journal or Institution’s Tone: If applicable, match the style and tone of the journal or institution to which you are submitting.

Research Paper Cover Letters play a crucial role in making a positive impression and conveying the significance of your work. By adhering to formalities and focusing on the essentials of your research, you can create an effective and professional cover letter.

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How To Submit The Perfect Writing Sample In 2023 (With Examples)

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Find a Job You Really Want In

Writing samples are generally requested if you apply for a writing job. Depending on how instrumental writing is to the job, your writing sample can be a bigger factor in deciding whether or not to hire you than even your resume or cover letter . That means that you should pay at least much attention to it as your resume — if not more.

A good writing sample doesn’t just show that you write well. If you want a writing sample that’ll stand out from the others, you’ll need to make sure to match the tone, style, and quality of the writing that the employer’s looking for. If you’re looking to apply for a writing job or have had a potential employer request a writing sample, then you’re in the right place.

Key Takeaways:

A writing sample shows an example of your past written work or is written in response to a prompt given by an employer.

There are 3 types of writing samples: the portfolio writing sample, the pre-interview requested sample, and the impromptu writing sample.

When providing a sample, research the company ahead of time to make sure your sample matches their needs and tone.

Have someone proofread your samples ahead of submission.

Writing samples are usually requested during a job application, but sometimes they may be requested after an interview.

How To Submit The Perfect Writing Sample In 2022 (With Examples)

What is a writing sample?

When do employers request a writing sample, how to choose a writing sample, what if i don’t have a writing sample, writing sample tips, writing sample faq.

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Writing samples are examples of your written work. It can be either a past written work or something that you write up in response to an employer’s request. Most writing samples are either going to be submitted alongside your resume, but a number of hiring managers will request a writing sample after looking over your resume.

There are essentially three types of writing samples if you’re applying for a job:

The portfolio writing sample . Writers are well aware of this request. They’re looking for jobs writing, so they’ve taken some of their best work and pulled it together to represent their skills and style.

Whether your portfolio is online, a paper document, or you have both – these pieces should be your very best stuff. If you’re a new writer, they might be pieces you did in school. If you’re a professional, use your work that appeared in the best-known publications.

The pre-interview requested sample. This is something writers can expect to encounter quite often when they’re applying for jobs. They’ve been selected out of the applicant pool to show how they can write for the company in question.

They’ll typically be given a mock assignment and asked to do the job, or at least a part of it. This shows the hiring manager how your work would fit in with their company.

When you’re given this sort of test, research how the company writes articles or whatever sort of content you’re being asked to write. Matching the tone and style of the company is just as important as high writing quality.

Impromptu writing sample. This type of writing is less common, but it happens. It might be something you encounter if you’re not applying for a writing job, but the employer feels writing is an integral part of the job.

Employers request writing samples to gauge the quality, tone, and style of the writer to see if it fits with the necessary standard and style of their current body of work. Of the three writing sample types, two are requested well before the interview, and one is frequently completed at the interview .

During the job interview. There isn’t much you can do in preparation for an impromptu writing sample. You should have a solid foundation in language, literary comprehension, and grammar.

With the application. Some employers ask for a writing sample in the job posting. They don’t want to see your resume and cover letter without an accompanying writing sample.

As a follow-up. You may find that whether the employer requested a writing sample from the outset or not, they’ll then request a specific writing sample or a tailored sample.

At the interview. This is different than during the job interview because they’re asking you to bring something with you to the interview . Whether it’s a physical writing portfolio or something they’ve specifically asked you to complete.

As your writing sample can have a large impact on the interview process, it’s something you want to consider carefully. There are several factors to consider when selecting your writing sample. Of course you want something that showcases your ability, but you also want one that’s relevant and current.

Match the sample with the job. If at all possible, investigate what style they’re already using. If you’re going to write copy for their website, read what’s already posted and mimic that style. Hiring managers are going to be drawn to a writer that can write in the style the company uses.

Follow the employer’s directions. While this may seem self-explanatory, it requires listening to what the employer asks of you. If they request an email writing sample, give them one. If you don’t have one in your portfolio, write one.

Keep it current. While you may have a writing sample that showcases your writing skills extremely well or is published by a well-known publisher , it likely isn’t the best sample if it isn’t recent. Showing them an old writing sample makes it seem as though you haven’t kept current or kept up with your writing skills.

If you’re asked for multiple samples, you may be able to include an older piece, but make sure that your other samples are up to date.

When it’s not about research. If you’re creating a portfolio, especially an online version, it’s a great idea to show your strengths .

People with broad-based backgrounds need to bank on this and show all of their many writing styles and voices. Writers who have a niche need to highlight their skills there. So the idea is, when it’s not about research, it’s about you.

And don’t forget to be perfect. We shouldn’t have to point this out, but if you’re choosing a writing sample, you want it to be perfect – no spelling or grammar errors. There also shouldn’t be any factual errors.

The answer to this question is simple: write one. Unless the application specifies otherwise, there’s no requirement that the writing sample you submit has to be something you’ve already written.

Look at examples of the type of writing you think will be most effective, be it on the company website, social media posts, or writing examples. Then write something that you think will appeal to the hiring manager. A newly written, relevant sample is in many ways more likely to succeed than something from a portfolio.

There’s a lot that goes into a successful writing sample. You want to make sure it’s up-to-date, relevant, and a showcase of your writing skills. Then there’s the matter of making sure that there aren’t any typos or grammatical errors in it. If you want your writing sample to truly sparkle, here are some tips to help.

Keep a file of your best work. That way, you have something if the request is immediate. Timeliness matters when applying for jobs, and they might not wait a week for you to write something fresh.

Have someone else proofread your writing samples. Sometimes you are so involved in the words that you miss mistakes.

Try to tie your sample to the company’s voice, product line, industry, etc. This is where your research pays off.

Brag about your best work. By including it also.

Be current. A sample that’s ten years old is not going to go over well if you don’t have recent work as well.

Show diversity in style. While you want to customize to their requirements, it doesn’t hurt to let them know if you have some chameleon-like abilities.

Create a pdf and make it look good. A word document is one thing, but a pdf with some graphic design elements behind it can really polish your words and make them look legitimate.

Use the actual publication. If you can, submit the link to your published work. This adds tons of legitimacy and value to your work.

Lean toward the short side of things. You want them to read most of what you’re submitting. This means a 20 -page , in-depth research grant proposal is too much. How about just a sample from that document? You can always let them know that you’d be happy to send the entire document at their request. Otherwise, try to keep your samples to one page or less.

How do you start a writing sample?

To start a writing sample, research the company’s current written content. Pay attention to the tone, style, and reading level of whatever content you would be responsible for writing if hired. If you are writing a fresh sample based on a prompt, be sure to follow instructions carefully regarding word count, formatting, and topic choice.

If you are submitting a portfolio of writing samples, select the ones that best represent your ability to write for this specific employer.

For instance, if you have great writing samples for a travel magazine, but you’re applying for a financial advice website, you might want to lean towards submitting work that somewhat pertains to finance, like budgeting for a trip — even if it isn’t your highest-quality work.

Is a writing sample a cover letter?

No, a writing sample is not a cover letter. A cover letter is written specifically for a job opportunity and describes your relevant experience and interest in the position. A cover letter has two topics — you and the company.

A writing sample isn’t about you or the company (unless the prompt or employer suggestions specify otherwise). A writing sample is either an example of your past written work or a document written for the company in response to a prompt.

What do you do if you don’t have a writing sample?

If you don’t have a writing sample, write one. Although it is more work, it’s important to develop a writing portfolio. Even if your written work doesn’t land you the specific job, you’ll at least have a writing sample ready for the next job you apply for.

If the job states that you may only submit published writing samples, you can still attempt to submit a freshly written one. However, that does qualify as failure to follow instructions and is less likely to result in a job offer.

Should writing samples be sent as PDFs?

Writing samples should be sent in whatever format requested by the employer. If no format is specified, PDF is a fine option for ensuring that formatting will not change between devices. Sending your sample as a Google doc can also be convenient, as it allows for the employer to write comments directly in the file.

If you are submitting a portfolio, you can certainly create a PDF for individual samples, or stitch a few together to create one PDF. Creating a personal website is also a good idea, although it doesn’t allow you to tailor your samples for specific job opportunities.

Do you need a writing sample for a job interview?

If you’re applying for a writing job, then chances are very good that you’ll need a writing sample. However, the majority of jobs aren’t going to require a writing sample. And even if they do require a writing sample, it usually isn’t submitted during the job interview.

Yale University — Guide to Submitting a Writing Sample

Duke University — Writing Sample Guide

Columbia University — Tips on Providing a Quality Writing Sample

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Kristin Kizer is an award-winning writer, television and documentary producer, and content specialist who has worked on a wide variety of written, broadcast, and electronic publications. A former writer/producer for The Discovery Channel, she is now a freelance writer and delighted to be sharing her talents and time with the wonderful Zippia audience.

Denise Bitler has 30+ years of HR experience working in various industries and with all level of employees from hourly through C-suite, as well as company Board Members.She is the founder of Resume-Interview Success, LLC and is an expert in best practices related to resume, cover letter, and Executive bio writing, LinkedIn Profile optimization, job search strategies, and interview coaching.

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American Psychological Association

Reference Examples

More than 100 reference examples and their corresponding in-text citations are presented in the seventh edition Publication Manual . Examples of the most common works that writers cite are provided on this page; additional examples are available in the Publication Manual .

To find the reference example you need, first select a category (e.g., periodicals) and then choose the appropriate type of work (e.g., journal article ) and follow the relevant example.

When selecting a category, use the webpages and websites category only when a work does not fit better within another category. For example, a report from a government website would use the reports category, whereas a page on a government website that is not a report or other work would use the webpages and websites category.

Also note that print and electronic references are largely the same. For example, to cite both print books and ebooks, use the books and reference works category and then choose the appropriate type of work (i.e., book ) and follow the relevant example (e.g., whole authored book ).

Examples on these pages illustrate the details of reference formats. We make every attempt to show examples that are in keeping with APA Style’s guiding principles of inclusivity and bias-free language. These examples are presented out of context only to demonstrate formatting issues (e.g., which elements to italicize, where punctuation is needed, placement of parentheses). References, including these examples, are not inherently endorsements for the ideas or content of the works themselves. An author may cite a work to support a statement or an idea, to critique that work, or for many other reasons. For more examples, see our sample papers .

Reference examples are covered in the seventh edition APA Style manuals in the Publication Manual Chapter 10 and the Concise Guide Chapter 10

Related handouts

  • Common Reference Examples Guide (PDF, 147KB)
  • Reference Quick Guide (PDF, 225KB)

Textual Works

Textual works are covered in Sections 10.1–10.8 of the Publication Manual . The most common categories and examples are presented here. For the reviews of other works category, see Section 10.7.

  • Journal Article References
  • Magazine Article References
  • Newspaper Article References
  • Blog Post and Blog Comment References
  • UpToDate Article References
  • Book/Ebook References
  • Diagnostic Manual References
  • Children’s Book or Other Illustrated Book References
  • Classroom Course Pack Material References
  • Religious Work References
  • Chapter in an Edited Book/Ebook References
  • Dictionary Entry References
  • Wikipedia Entry References
  • Report by a Government Agency References
  • Report with Individual Authors References
  • Brochure References
  • Ethics Code References
  • Fact Sheet References
  • ISO Standard References
  • Press Release References
  • White Paper References
  • Conference Presentation References
  • Conference Proceeding References
  • Published Dissertation or Thesis References
  • Unpublished Dissertation or Thesis References
  • ERIC Database References
  • Preprint Article References

Data and Assessments

Data sets are covered in Section 10.9 of the Publication Manual . For the software and tests categories, see Sections 10.10 and 10.11.

  • Data Set References
  • Toolbox References

Audiovisual Media

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How does one politely request an instrument from a researcher?

I have just discovered that the (psychological) instrument I've been reading up on for my research team has never been, itself, published, though research into its validity and reliability etc has been; one of these research papers says in a footnote that the instrument and the manual are available from the author.

In writing the author, how should I phrase my request?

Issues I am wondering include:

  • Should I assume that he charges money for these and ask the price he charges? Should I simply ask if he would be willing to send them to me electronically, and allow him to indicate if there is a fee?
  • Is requesting soft copy vs hard copy more or less polite?
  • I don't know the author's title; he is not at an academic institution, but a government agency. Should I address him as "Dear Dr. Authorname" by default?
  • Is there anything else I should know about the etiquette of this sort of request that it might not have occurred to me to ask about?

In case it matters: what I really want is to see the instrument itself, to start. Some of the example items included in one of the research papers I read suggest they may be phrased in a way which, alas, makes the instrument inappropriate for our project, but I gather that since then the instrument has been revised. Obviously, I don't want to sink money into resources that we won't be able to use. Is asking for a review copy a thing that is done in this field?

Edited to add: Ah, we've moved! Hello, Academics.stackexchange.com! This question was migrated from CogSci.stackexchange.com, which is why it was as cryptic as several of you found it. It lacked the explanatory context you needed, because it's reasonable to assume the original audience of cognitive scientists know, e.g. what a psychological instrument is.

The answers posted here so far have been from people who have said they're unfamiliar with psychological instruments, but proceed to answer anyways. "What's the big deal? It's some sort of questionnaire, right?"

If you're not familiar with psychology and cognitive science – if you don't know what a psychological instrument is – you probably don't know about the intellectual property status of psychological instruments.

In research psychology, it is a reasonably common practice to commodify instruments. That means sell them for money . In this sense, they are less like research articles, and more like textbooks: made by academics, but sold as products.

For instance, if you want to administer the Beck Hopelessness Scale, you would need to buy the manual at $83.00, a pack of 25 forms (the actual questionnaire) at $58.00, and the scoring key at $10.50, or buy the whole package for $131 .

As you can see from those prices, instruments can be big business. Publishers can be pretty fierce about protecting their intellectual property. In 2012, Pearson got the entirety of Edublogs shut down by serving a DMCA takedown notice to the Edublogs' host, because one of those 1.5 million bloggers posted the Beck Hopelessness Scale.

In other instruments-as-big-business news, there was the conflict-of-interest scandal , where the head of the APA’s DSM-5 task force, who had driven the adoption of dimensional scale measures in the DSM-5, was discovered not to have disclosed that he was involved in a business preparing to sell a computerized dimensional assessment instrument.

Contrariwise, very many instruments are made widely available, essentially for free. Usually that is done by either just including the instrument as an appendix to the article when the substantiating research is published, or it's slapped on a website somewhere ( e.g. ). In this era of trivial self-publishing, it struck me as a little odd that the author requires direct personal contact to source his instrument and manual, and is one of the things which makes me wonder if that is because he is selling it.

In any event, now that I've explained to you how psychological instruments are situated as intellectual property in psychology, perhaps you can see my confusion.

It may be that in asking him for a copy of the instrument and manual, I would be doing the equivalent, as I think some of the answerers to date have assumed, of asking for a copy of a research article, or data. But it also may be that asking for a copy of the instrument and manual, I am doing something much more like asking for a digital copy of a textbook , in that it may be a product priced equivalently, and as zealously guarded. I suspect that most academics here would not consider asking for a copy of a textbook a "reasonable request", but would consider it more reasonable to ask how one might buy one .

That was why I was hoping researchers in psychology would answer my question, based on their direct knowledge of the occupational-cultural norms around the "reasonableness" of requesting instruments.

  • communication

Codeswitcher's user avatar

  • 3 What does it mean to "publish an instrument"? –  Pete L. Clark May 22, 2016 at 16:18
  • 4 What's a psychological instrument? –  Massimo Ortolano May 22, 2016 at 17:34
  • 2 Concerning the edit: you don't need to be a researcher in psychology to know that if someone writes "X is available from Mr. Y," then it's okay to contact Mr. Y if you're interested in X. Note that my answer did not come down on either side of the question of whether you will have to pay money for the document you're asking for. The point being: whether and how much you'll have to pay is something that the person who has the document will tell you when you write to ask for it. By the way, if you're confused about occupational-cultural norms in your field, talk to your advisor. –  Pete L. Clark May 23, 2016 at 7:12
  • Further: you seem confident that it is okay to ask for articles and not okay to ask for textbooks, but I have not perceived such a distinction in my own academic work. Articles are copyrighted just like textbooks, and their price per page is usually much higher. Some people put copies of textbooks freely online, and I have been emailed copies of textbooks from fellow academics which are not available online. I have also had academics tell me that they do not have a copy to give me...with no hard feelings whatsoever.... –  Pete L. Clark May 23, 2016 at 7:23
  • 1 @Codeswitcher: The site is academia.SE, not research.SE. To be honest, if you had mentioned at the beginning that you were not an academic, your question might have been closed as being off-topic. Of course you didn't come to the site either but had your question migrated here, so it's a bit of a strange situation all around. –  Pete L. Clark May 23, 2016 at 22:54

4 Answers 4

According to this link , a "psychological instrument" is another term for a "psychological test". (So I understand now what it means to "publish the instrument".) However, usually one does not publish a test while it is being used or may be used again, and I don't see why psychological tests should be any different, so the lack of publication is not very surprising.

The rest of your question is making quite a mountain out of a molehill. According to Mr. So-and-so, the test is available if you write to him. So write to him and ask for the test. Just for peace of mind, let me quickly address your concerns:

1) No, you don't need to do either of those things. Just ask for a copy.

2) No. If one version is preferable, you can ask for it. Just make clear you'll be happy either way.

3) It really doesn't matter that much. If you care, you might try googling the name to see if you can find out whether he has a doctoral degree. If you don't know, then since you ask, for me in academic correspondence I tend to assume that the correspondent has a PhD until they tell me otherwise. But it is no big deal.

4) Just don't be weird. The entire request shouldn't take more than five lines.

Pete L. Clark's user avatar

  • Yeah, this: you politely ask askfor this the same way you'd politely ask for pretty much anything else. Just introduce yourself briefly and cite the paper with the offer and ask. –  The Nate May 22, 2016 at 18:14

I do hope this psychological instrument detects how likely someone is to over-think an e-mail ;)

Don't call people Dr if you don't know they are a Dr. This goes or Mr, Mrs, Lord, Lady, Your Majesty, Mother of Dragons, etc.

A request is impolite if it is unreasonable. If you don't know what is more reasonable, a hard copy or a soft copy, just ask for "a copy".

Do not assume this person wants money. Assumptions can be offensive, even if correct. Leave it up to them to stipulate the conditions of use. If they do want money, you'll be in a better bargaining position anyway if you come from a position of not expecting to have to pay anything.

If this person is a non-academic, they will probably be excited that their work is still being put to use by academics. My advice would be to write this e-mail from an abundance philosophy rather than a scarcity philosophy which is the impression I get based on your listed concerns. Just relax!

Wetlab Walter's user avatar

  • There is a reasonable possibility that a governmental employee created something that is public domain to citizens. –  The Nate May 22, 2016 at 18:00
  • 1 One point I disagree with: "Don't call people Dr if you don't know they are a Dr". It has a good chance of coming of as impolite if you go with Mr/Ms. Going with Dr is usually a safe bet. –  Jakub Konieczny Oct 26, 2016 at 21:04
  • It's a fair point, because yes it's awkward when you write Mr. and they reply with "actually i'm a Dr." -- but it's more awkward in my experience when you say "Dr." and they reply "i'm not a Dr. i'm just a Mr". It... sets a tone of this other person not meeting your expectations, rather than being better than you thought. But you're right, it's ultimately personal preference. –  Wetlab Walter Oct 27, 2016 at 13:10

I'm no psychologist (but from another quantitative social science). But I am very sure that your request is not unreasonable at all. In fact, to the opposite: not sharing the instrument with a fellow researcher would border academic misconduct, I think. Just think of the recent scandals in the field of social-psychology (Stapel, Förster, ...): In these cases, the researchers were unable to produce their data - and were in the end declared guilty of fraud. Sharing an instrument is the least one can do.

Given the fact that an instrument is basically just a text document, and the only reason why it is not published is often a lack of space (though this is a weird argument in times of online appendices), there is no reason for the researcher not to share it with you. In fact, it is in their own interest, as it generates citations.

damian's user avatar

Here is for your inspiration:

Dear Dr./Mr./Ms./..., recently I was reading your paper "..." in Journal. I am very curious about the unpublished ... Test that you used in some of the described experiments, as I am currently planning a study and am looking for a test like that. So I was wondering if you could provide me with the task material and allow me use that test for an experiment on ...? In that experiment I plan to .... Please let me know if there is a chance to use that test. Looking forward to hearing from you. Kind regards, ...

vanao veneri's user avatar

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how to write an email to research paper author sample

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COMMENTS

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  2. How to write an email to a researcher you've never spoken to before

    If for some reason there are more than three you can address it to "all.". Keep in mind that you generally want to avoid sending a single email to more than 3 or so researchers—things get messy. (One or two really is best.) Make sure to double check that you have spelled their name (s) correctly before sending. INTRODUCTION.

  3. How to Ask a Journal Editor About Manuscript Status (Email Template

    How to write an email to journal editor sample. When writing an email to the journal editor, it is essential to be respectful, concise, and professional. Most importantly, maintain a tone of patience and politeness. Remember that your manuscript is probably one of the many others that the editor may be sifting through and evaluating. Here is a ...

  4. Template Requesting Authors for Copy of the Research Paper

    Email Template for Requesting the Authors for a Copy of the Research Paper. This template you can use as a basis for making a request to authors for a research paper. Subject: Request for Research Paper - [Paper Title] I hope this email finds you well. My name is [Your Name], and I am a [Your Position/Role] at [Your Institution/Company].

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  27. How does one politely request an instrument from a researcher?

    So write to him and ask for the test. Just for peace of mind, let me quickly address your concerns: 1) No, you don't need to do either of those things. Just ask for a copy. 2) No. If one version is preferable, you can ask for it. Just make clear you'll be happy either way. 3) It really doesn't matter that much.