Contribute

All contributions are reviewed by the CDS Blog Editors (i.e. the Director and Postdoctoral Research Fellow). Blog posts should follow the guidelines laid out below:

  • Posts should be submitted as a Word document with minimal formatting.
  • Submissions should not exceed 800 words (though exceptions can be made).
  • If needed, provide references in the form of endnotes or hyperlinks.
  • Pictures or images should be submitted as separate files (subject to copyright permissions) and not embedded in the Word document.

 

Structure

Please use headings and sub-headings as this helps to make your text much easier to read. Title and sub-headings should not exceed 70 characters. These should tell the reader what to expect. For example, we prefer a descriptive heading to a metaphorical one.

 

Types of content

The aim of the CDS blog is to share knowledge with and inform readers of issues relevant to CDS. We welcome blog contributions that:

  • Engage with current affairs and challenge or support existing debates;
  • Present new ideas;
  • Showcase CDS research projects, publications, and events;
  • Opinion pieces – where it is evident that the writer is writing on the basis of specific expertise or experience (preferably linked to relevant research) that helps to explain why their views are particularly worth hearing; and
  • Pieces that reflect on particular events, such as major conferences, or International Days (e.g. World Health Day, Women’s Day).

Blog posts that draw on your own research are particularly welcome, but this is not a requirement. The CDS blog may also enable you to share reflections on the different aspects of your work, such as research, teaching or campaigning.

 

Audience

Keep your target audience in mind when writing. The CDS blog appeals to a wide audience. This includes academics, policymakers, the civil service, NGOs and members of the public.

 

Storytelling

Try to keep your blog posts conversational and engaging. Using a narrative style can help convey meaning and make complex issues seem more understandable and relatable. Don’t be afraid to ‘tell a story’ about your work, your experience as a researcher, an educator or simply a person with an interest in your field.

 

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