Land-Grant Press provides multiple publishing options to support the diverse research-based content produced across Clemson Cooperative Extension. Each publication type serves a different purpose, audience, level of content & review process.
Current publication options include:
- Peer-Reviewed Journals
- Fact Sheets
- Blog Posts
- Manuals
- *Additional publication types may be added as Land-Grant Press evolves
Use our Decision Guide section below to decide which publication type is right for your content.
Follow the links in our Submission Guide section below to learn more about our submission process.
If you have any questions not answered in our guides visit our Frequently Asked Questions page or contact us for further guidance.
Decision Guide
Peer-Reviewed Journals
Primary Purpose
Provides a scholarly publishing outlet for research-based work that contributes to Extension knowledge, practice and scholarship. Journal articles provide authors an opportunity to document and share research, applied scholarship, program outcomes, innovative practices and other scholarly contributions relevant to Extension.
Depth of Content
Scholarly and in-depth. Journal articles provide a thorough examination of a topic and are supported by appropriate research, evidence and references.
Content may include research findings, methods, data, analysis, program outcomes, applied research, scholarly discussion and implications for Extension practice.
Journal articles undergo a formal peer-review process and are expected to meet a higher level of scholarly rigor than other Land-Grant Press publication types.
Tone and Style
Scholarly, professional and evidence-based. Writing should be clear, well organized and appropriate for an academic and professional audience.
Authors should clearly explain the purpose and significance of their work, support conclusions with appropriate evidence and references and follow the journal’s established formatting, citation and submission requirements.
Audience
Extension professionals, faculty, researchers, educators, administrators and other academic or professional audiences interested in Extension research, scholarship, programming and practice.
Fact Sheets
Primary Purpose
Provides detailed, research-based educational information on a specific topic and is intended to serve as a useful, long-term reference.
Depth of Content
Fact sheets should provide enough depth to thoroughly address the topic while remaining focused and useful to the intended audience.
Content may include:
- Research findings and supporting evidence
- Data and statistics
- Citations and references
- Diagrams, charts or graphics
- Photographs
- Step-by-step recommendations or instructions
There is no universal word count for a fact sheet; however, exceptionally long or comprehensive content may be better suited to another Land-Grant Press publication type, such as a manual.
Tone and Style
Clear, objective and professional.
Translate research and technical information into practical information appropriate for the intended audience. Use plain language whenever possible and define technical terms that may be unfamiliar to your audience.
Audience
Extension audiences seeking accurate, detailed information and practical recommendations, including producers, landowners, industry professionals, educators, community members and others.
Blog Posts
Primary Purpose
Provides timely, relevant information, practical tips, updates or quick takeaways.
Blog posts may address current or emerging topics and can direct readers to more detailed Extension resources.
Depth of Content
Shorter and more focused than a fact sheet, with an emphasis on practical, accessible information.
Target length: approximately 350 words or fewer.
Tone and Style
Conversational, approachable and engaging.
A first-person or friendly instructional tone may be appropriate. Write for the intended audience, use plain language and define technical terms when needed.
Audience
Extension audiences looking for timely, accessible information.
Blog posts are also well suited for sharing through newsletters, websites and social media.
Manuals
Primary Purpose
Provides comprehensive, research-based guidance on a broad topic, practice or process that requires more depth and detail than can reasonably be covered in a fact sheet. Manuals may bring together multiple related topics into one organized resource that can serve as a long-term reference.
Depth of Content
Comprehensive and in-depth. Manuals may include multiple sections or chapters that address different aspects of a broader topic and may incorporate research findings, technical recommendations, data, tables, photographs, diagrams, references and step-by-step guidance.
A manual should be considered when the subject requires substantially more detail or covers multiple related topics that would be difficult to address effectively in a single fact sheet.
There is no defined word or page limit.
Tone and Style
Clear, professional and instructional. Content should be well organized so readers can easily navigate individual topics or use the manual as a reference.
Technical information and terminology may be used when appropriate for the intended audience, but concepts should be clearly explained. Authors should use plain language where possible and define technical terms that may be unfamiliar to the audience.
Headings, subheadings, tables, photographs, diagrams, examples and other visual elements should be used when appropriate to make complex information easier to understand and use.
Audience
Extension audiences who need comprehensive or specialized guidance on a topic, including producers, landowners, industry professionals, educators, Extension professionals and other audiences seeking an in-depth reference or practical guide.
Submission Process
Peer-Reviewed Journals
Journal submissions follow a process separate from the processes of other publication types. Use this link to access our Journal Submission Guidelines.