Gray Space Writer’s Guide for Article Submissions

(a) OPSEC

OPSEC must always be observed. Only unclassified information may be published in Gray Space. Authors are responsible for ensuring no security compromises occur. If you are unsure about the sensitivity of any content, consult your unit’s information security officer before submitting.

All submissions must also include a signed Public Affairs Office (PAO) release memo. Authors are required to obtain this memo from their PAO prior to submitting their article. The signed memo must accompany the submission packet. (Template provided below.)

(b) Article Submission

Gray Space does not provide payment for articles or illustrations, and the Professional Bulletin is not copyrighted. All published material is considered public domain unless otherwise stated. Any copyrighted material must be used with explicit permission, clearly annotated with the appropriate legal notification. Authors are responsible for providing proof of permission for all copyrighted content.

(c) Getting Started

Choose a topic relevant to the United States Army Cyber community. Topics should contribute to the professional development of CY personnel across the branch. Many authors begin by drafting an outline to organize their thoughts. State your bottom line up front and include a concise introduction and conclusion. Submissions should be largely free of spelling and grammar errors and written in active voice when possible. Articles must be submitted as a Microsoft Word document, using 12-point Arial font, double-spaced. Typical submissions range from 1,000 to 2,500 words and must not exceed 3,000. The Gray Space staff may consider multi-part series when appropriate.

(d) Acronyms

Spell out acronyms upon first use, followed by the acronym in parentheses. For example: Cyber (CY). Subsequent uses of the acronym CY are acceptable.

(e) Topic Selection

Topics should be qualitative, thought-provoking, and relevant to current events within the branch or the broader world. Avoid producing information-heavy or academic-style papers.

(f) Strive to Educate, Not Impress

Use clear and straightforward language. Overuse of complex words, adjectives, and adverbs can distract from your message. Align your article with the Chief of Staff of the Army’s focus areas. Write in article format—not as an academic paper or white paper.

(g) Artificial Intelligence-Assisted Writing

Gray Space recognizes that AI-assisted tools are now common in many authors’ workflows and does not prohibit their use. However, the use of these tools does not reduce the author’s responsibility for accuracy, integrity, and originality.

Authors must:

• Carefully review and revise all AI-generated text to reflect their own voice, expertise, and intent. Submissions must represent the author’s own analysis, not a tool’s unedited output.
• Independently verify every citation. Ensure each reference exists, accurately reflects the information claimed, and is relevant to the point it supports.
• Take full ownership of all factual assertions. AI tools may generate plausible but incorrect statements; authors are responsible for verifying accuracy.

Submissions that fail to meet these standards or appear to rely heavily on AI-generated content may be returned without review. AI can support the writing process, but it cannot replace the disciplined effort required for quality work.

(h) Writing Tips

The introduction is one of the most important parts of an article—it can capture or lose the reader’s attention within seconds.

• Keep your writing clear and concise. Avoid delaying your main point.
• Include photos or graphics when appropriate, as visuals improve engagement.
• Remember that articles will appear on public-facing platforms and may be read by professionals from diverse backgrounds. Cyber is the primary audience, but not the only one.
• Include one or more suggested headlines that reflect the central idea of your article.
• If you need help getting started, refer to Military Review’s Special Edition on Professional Military Writing.
• Following these guidelines and tips increases the likelihood that your work will be published and shared widely.

(i) Photos and Artwork

Include photos or graphics as supplemental files—do not embed them in the Word document. Provide a brief description and credit for each image. Acceptable file formats include .jpg and .png. Ensure all images are properly sourced.

(j) References

Use American Psychological Association (APA) style for all references. Footnotes and embedded hyperlinks are not authorized. For sources behind paywalls, include a PDF of the referenced material for verification.

(k) Biography

Begin with your rank and full name, followed by your current position and unit. Include previous positions, especially those relevant to your article’s topic. You may also include commissioning details and educational background.

(l) Submission

Send articles, questions, and concerns to:

USARMYFtGordonCCoEMailboxTheGraySpace@army.mil

PAO Memo Template (DOCX)