We tell stories.
Mind Sprocket gives voice to simple and honest perspectives. We publish thoughts and experiences on our world. We tell stories.
Documenting the Unseen is our first book, and we just published! Get your copy today.
Style Guide
The style guide succinctly explains the guidelines for all published works, excepting those published by the Mind Sprocket Press.
Biography and picture
Submissions should include a short author bio of maximum 45 words. A standard size picture is required for all contributors to Mind Sprocket. The picture should clearly show your face and look professional.
Blurbs
Articles should be accompanied by a two to three sentence description that will interest a reader.
Headers
Use snappy and informative headers to break-up the article into main points.
Article length
Articles range from 1,500 to 2,000 words.
Tone
Articles are written in a conversational and direct tone. Writers should sound like themselves. English is meant to communicate, not confuse.
Be clear
Clarity is writing that is free from ambiguity and uses only the words you need to express an idea. Express much in few words. Take special care to define uncommon words or phrases, steer clear of trendy words or catch phrases, and flee from broad generalizations. Avoid the famous dangling participle.
“At age five, my grandmother died.” (Were you five when she died, or was she?)
Be concise
Be sharp, direct, and concise. Nobody wants to read your senior thesis paper. We publish straightforward, elegant, and effective writing.
Be aware
Just because you know something, that does not mean your readers do as well. Take the extra time to research a person, event, or acronym and provide relevant information.
Be articulate
Sometimes we need an obscure word to precisely articulate a meaning or to emphasize a point. Articulate with care. English is meant for communication and expression, not fattening paragraphs with needless words.
Commas
Commas make the enormous difference between ambiguity and clarity. Use them creatively, use them resourcefully, and use them with care.
Profanity
Profanity is to be used only when it truly adds content. That is a rare occurrence.
Links
Add links to online material that add value by being referenced in your article.
Adding Images to Your Article
If you wish to include images with your article, attach an image with your submission. All images must be submitted with a source and author.
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