What is the word limit for BMJ manuscript body?

BMJ (BMJ) typically allows 4000 (body) for the main body text. This limit may vary slightly depending on the specific article type.

Does BMJ require a structured abstract?

Yes, BMJ requires a structured abstract with a maximum of 300 words, including the following sections: Objective, Design, Setting, Participants, Main outcome measures, Results, Conclusions.

What citation style does BMJ use?

BMJ uses the Vancouver citation style. References should be numbered in order of appearance.

What reporting guidelines does BMJ recommend?

BMJ recommends the following reporting guidelines: CONSORT, STROBE, PRISMA, COREQ, STARD. Always check the latest author guidelines on the journal website.

What are the key requirements for submitting to BMJ?

Key requirements include: Patient and public involvement; Strengths and limitations; COI statements. Always refer to the official journal guidelines for the most current requirements.

#4 General Medicine

The BMJ - British Medical Journal

BMJ Publishing Group | Impact Factor: 105.7

BMJ manuscript format guidelines: structured abstract for research, Vancouver citations, patient involvement requirements, and BMJ submission checklist for original research.

Check Your Manuscript View Pro Features

1Abstract Requirements

RequiredYes

StructureStructured

Max Words300

Required Sections:

ObjectiveDesignSettingParticipantsMain outcome measuresResultsConclusions

2Citation Style

StyleVancouver

NumberingNumbered in order of appearance

DOI Format:

doi:10.1136/bmj.xxxxx

3Word Limits & Formatting

Body Word Limit

4000 (body)

Max References

Max Figures

Flexible

Max Tables

Flexible

4Required Reporting Guidelines

BMJ recommends or requires the following reporting guidelines:

CONSORTSTROBEPRISMACOREQSTARD

5Required Manuscript Elements

✓Patient and public involvement
✓Strengths and limitations
✓COI statements

6Submission Requirements

LanguageEnglish

Plagiarism CheckRequired

COI DeclarationRequired

Open AccessBMJ Open Access option

Pre-Submission Checklist

Abstract

300-word structured abstractAll sections complete

Manuscript

Word count within limit (4000 (body))Vancouver citation formatAll references formatted correctly

Compliance

CONSORT / STROBE / PRISMA / COREQ / STARD checklistCOI declarations completedEthics approval documented

Ensure Your Manuscript Meets BMJ Requirements

Use SciPaperX to automatically check your manuscript formatting, citations, and compliance before submission.

Free Manuscript Check Unlock All 410+ AI Skills