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(Clockwise from left) Mya Harmer, Alexis Porter and Katie Tyrrell, staff members with the Steinman Lab, take a boat onto Nichols Lake in Newaygo County on June 24. They are working as part of AWRI’s inland lake salt survey. (Photo releases on file)

Final Manuscript

  • Submit manuscript/report in PDF through the online form. 
  • Questions? Reach out to [email protected]!

Abstract
The abstract is a summary of your paper in about 200 words. The purpose of your research needs to be communicated in one to two sentences. For empirical research, also include a statement about the methodology or experimental design followed. The abstract should conclude with several sentences summarizing the primary results and conclusions. For papers in the humanities, include a statement regarding the major thesis and a sentence for each of the primary ideas explained in the paper. Be sure to check with your mentor about common practice in your field.

Manuscript Length
Each final manuscript should be of publishable quality. Generally, papers are between 1500 and 4000 words, including references. Though professional standards apply, there is no limit on the number of figures and tables in a paper. Please note that humanities and social science papers tend to be much lengthier. Consult with your faculty mentor about the appropriate length for your discipline.

Research Format
Manuscripts should conform to the manuscript and documentation format appropriate to the student's discipline (APA, IEEE, MLA, CBE, Chicago, etc.), including labeling and constructing figures and tables.

References (Works Cited)
All sources referred to (or cited) in your manuscript must be listed at the end. The format used for this listing should reflect common practice in your field. 

AI Use
If generative AI is used in the research or writing process, the scholar must make note of the AI use in the reference section, as well as specify in the methods section how, when, and to what extent AI was used

Plans for Dissemination
All plans for conferences, presentations, or publications must be included as part of the final report. Submission to Grand Valley State University's Institutional Repository, ScholarWorks, is required. You may submit your entire Final Project Report or your abstract.

If you are planning to request an extension on your Final Paper or Budget, you must submit your reason for the request(s) and your new proposed timeline by 5:00 p.m. on the Extension Request Deadline date (as found on the Program Schedule page). Submit your request through the online form. 

Page last modified March 26, 2026