So you want to be a contributor?
1. Write a compelling piece.
A typical contributor article is within 500-900 words and has a personal or creative edge. A great piece of writing includes a "hook" or "lede" in the opening paragraph (or two) of the story, meant to capture the reader鈥檚 attention. Reference sources and helpful information using hyperlinks, so curious readers will be redirected to the appropriate sites. Please use accessible language and define scientific terms/jargon.
Note that we give priority to topical and relevant submissions as well as topics that the OSS has not already covered. Take some time to search through our existing content to ensure a unique submission.
2. Ensure completeness of your submission.
Before submitting, please ensure your submission includes the following:
- Title - This is self-explanatory. To get the most clicks, make sure your title describes what your article will be discussing.聽
- DEK - A DEK is a short sub header that is informative and intriguing that appears below the title of your article. See an example here.
- Byline - Your byline will appear at the bottom of your article as a short blurb about the author! As a student contributor, it should cover in 1-2 sentences who you are, what you're studying, and what you want the readers to know about you. See an example here.
- Keywords - Keywords help improve the searchability of the article. See an example here.
- Image (Optional) - You are welcome to suggest an image to accompany your writing. Please ensure the image is not copyrighted, and is cropped to 960 x 420 pixels.
3. Send us your work.
Once you've completed the above steps, you're ready to submit! Send your article via email body or Word document to joe.schwarcz [at] mcgill.ca, including cat.wang [at] mail.mcgill.ca in CC. If we choose to publish your writing, we'll be in touch.
Part of the OSS mandate is to foster science communication and critical thinking in our students and the public. So, thanks for getting involved with the OSS!
