- IEEE style
- Min. 20 references
- 80% recent journals
References are part of the argument, not an afterthought. Accurate citation shows where ideas originate, allows readers to verify claims, and credits the researchers whose work made yours possible.
INNOVATE recommends that authors use reference management software to keep bibliographies consistent and complete throughout drafting and revision.
IEEE citation requirements
- Numbered references cited in square brackets, e.g. [1]
- Minimum 20 references per manuscript
- At least 80% from reputable journal articles within the last five years
- Every in-text citation must appear in the reference list, and vice versa
- Verify author names, titles, journals, volumes, pages, and DOIs before submission
Common mistakes to avoid
- Citing sources that were never consulted
- Secondary citations presented as original reading
- Missing DOIs or incomplete author information
- Inconsistent formatting between reference list and in-text citations
Before you submit
IEEECarefully verify all references and in-text citations. See the Author Guidelines for full formatting details and examples.