Writer's Guide for Article Submissions

General Guidance

(a) OPSEC must be observed always. Only unclassified information can be published in Gray Space. It is the author’s responsibility to ensure security is not compromised.

(b) Article submission. The Gray Space does not pay for articles or illustrations, and the Professional Bulletin is not copyrighted. All material published in the Professional Bulletin is considered public domain unless otherwise indicated. The use of copyrighted material is by permission only and will be clearly marked with the appropriate legal notification. Professional Bulletin authors must provide proof of permission to use copyrighted material.

(c) Getting started. Select a topic of interest to the United States Army Cyber community. The topics should help develop CY professionals throughout the branch. Many authors initially write an outline to organize their thoughts before they begin writing. Clearly state the bottom line upfront and write a concise introduction and conclusion to your article. Submitted articles should be relatively free of spelling and grammar errors. Try to maintain an active voice as much as possible. Articles will be submitted in a Microsoft Word document. Articles will be formatted with a size 12, Arial font, and will be double-spaced. Normal submissions are usually between 1,000 and 2,500 words, but no more than 3,000. The Gray Space staff will also consider publishing an article in a series format.

(d) Acronyms. Acronyms will initially be spelled out; for example, Cyber (CY), a second mention of the term the acronym CY is acceptable.

(e) Strive to educate, not impress. A clear message is written in simple language. An abundance of adjectives, adverbs, and words the reader will have to look-up detracts from the message. Align your article with the Chief of Staff of the Army’s (CSA) focus areas. Write in an article format, NOT as an academic paper or a White Paper. Ensure your content is actionable, innovative, engaging, and adds value to the Army’s body of knowledge. Consider themes and the trending topics provided, but don’t let them limit your topics.

(f) Photos and artwork. Include pictures or graphics to supplement the article. Do not place them in the Word document. Be sure to add a brief description of the photo and photo credit. Acceptable files are jpg, png, etc.

(g) The Army and the civilian style for journalism is the Associated Press (AP). This is what is taught in all journalism courses under the Army and across the Department of Defense. Always give a person’s rank and full name on the first reference. Afterward, use the last name only.

(h) References. The approved style for references is American Psychological Association (APA). Footnotes and embedded links are not authorized.

(i) Biography. Start with rank and full name followed by your current position and unit. Add previous positions, especially those with experience, which is relevant to the article topic. Consider including information about commissioning and educational degrees.

(j) Submit articles to: Gray Space

Contact Information

For any questions or assistance, please email Capt. Kirk.