Check the actual file before submission
Verify the target journal, figure category and submission stage, then inspect the exported file. Keep scientific approval and material permissions with the submission record.
Eight checks for the final handoff
| Check | What to verify |
|---|---|
| Journal and stage | Article type and initial submission versus production requirements |
| File format | Accepted vector or raster format, not a low-quality screenshot |
| Effective resolution | Actual pixels at final dimensions; no invented detail from upsampling |
| Color | Required mode, contrast and distinction without color alone |
| Typography | Supported fonts and readable final-size text |
| Panels and labels | Panel letters, axes, units, scale bars and caption references |
| Editable source | Agreed text, lines, arrows and source project or scene |
| Final inspection | Open the actual export and revisit the current official instructions |
Keep a source and permission record
Record original images, adjustments, structure provenance and asset licenses. Distinguish explanatory drawings from quantitative evidence. Review the paper-figure guide and journal resource hub.
Check the submission category separately
TOC graphics, review artwork and cover proposals require their own category checks. A single “SCI format” does not cover every journal.
Sources and scope
- Nature figure specifications
- Nature figure-panel construction and export
- Nature image-integrity guidance
Sources apply within their stated scope. Archive records describe existing work; international account access and checkout remain closed.
Choose the next step
Understand the platform · Scope a design commission · Contact support