OPEN LETTER TO CONDOR CONTRIBUTORS 
The building of a journal begins with the mechanical preparation of the ie 
copy by the author. This work may be so managed that it will later contribute Sa 
toward accuracy of workmanship, dispatch in handling, and economy of produe- 
tion. Codperation of author with editor, publisher and printer results in bene- 
_ fit to all four. The author secures creditable presentation of his ideas, the editor 
is relieved of needless drudgery, the publisher obtains the highest quality and 
best service for the amount expended, and the printer profits by the economy of 
time, effort and materials. 
As regards the author, an important feature of his cooperation is to see 
that his manuscript is as nearly as possible ready for delivery to the printer. 
The Condor is published by the Cooper Ornithological Club, and practically 
all the Club’s money goes into the magazine. Articles published in The Condor 
are written by Club members. Poor copy for the printer results in poor proof, 
requiring repeated resetting of type and rereading of proof. Resetting type 
costs money. Money saved by good management in this regard may be expended 
toward a larger and better magazine. As an aid toward such economy the fol- 
lowing rules and recommendations have been drawn up. 
RULES 
1. Manuscripts, if not typewritten, should be in perfectly clear handwriting. 
2. Use one side of the paper only. No circumstances allow of an exception to 
this rule. | 
3. In typewritten manuscript always leave double space between the lines. In 
peg oes copy leave as much space as is occupied by the written line 
itsel 
4. Liberal margins should be left at the top and sides of the sheets; at least 
114 inches at the left side. 
5. The author should himself prepare copy for titles, and, where needed, for 
sub-titles. 
6. The author should himself prepare full and illuminating captions for illus- 
trations. 
RECOMMENDATIONS 
It may be assumed that the author has used due eare and thought in the ar- 
rangement of his material, in logical sequence of presentation, and in conciseness 
and clearness of statement. But before the manuscript is submitted it will be 
well to give it thorough revision as a whole. The excision of superfluous words 
and phrases, and of immaterial detail generally, will not only make for clear- 
ness and precision, but will also reduce the cost of publication appreciably. Con- 
ciseness 1s particularly to be recommended in papers on technical subjects. 
Observe Condor style and usage, familiarize yourself with its leading feat-. 
ures and prepare your paper accordingly. ‘General articles’’ and the brief 
‘‘Mield and ae items are printed in different styles. 
There are ‘‘manuals’’ published that give detailed instruction for the prep- 
aration of manuscript. Those who care to provide themselves with sueh aids will 
find them useful. Two such standard publications are the Manual of Style, 
issued by the University of Chicago Press, and Suggestions on the Preparation | 
of Manuscript, by the University of California Press. | 
Respectfully submitted, 4 . 
THE Epirors or THE Conpor. — 
