Figure Formatting Checklist for Cell
A complete checklist for Cell journal figure submission. Dimensions, DPI, color mode, file formats, and common mistakes.
Dimensions
| Type | Width | DPI |
|---|---|---|
| Single column | 85 mm | 300 DPI |
| Double column | 174 mm | 300 DPI |
| Line art | Any | 800–1200 DPI |
| Graphical abstract | 1200 × 1600 px | 300 DPI |
Checklist
- □Figure is 85 mm (single) or 174 mm (double) wide
- □Raster images at 300 DPI minimum; line art at 800–1200 DPI
- □File format: TIFF (raster) or PDF (vector)
- □Color mode: RGB (online) or CMYK (print)
- □Font is legible at publication size (minimum 8 pt)
- □Colorblind-friendly palette used
- □All panels labeled (A, B, C, D) if multi-panel
- □Graphical abstract provided at 1200 × 1600 px
- □Scale bars included for microscopy images
- □No compression artifacts (avoid JPEG)
Common Mistakes
Missing Graphical Abstract
Cell requires a graphical abstract. Submitting without one will delay your submission.
Wrong File Format
Using JPEG instead of TIFF or PDF. JPEG compression artifacts reduce quality.
Low DPI
Submitting at 72–96 DPI instead of 300 DPI. This causes pixelation and rejection.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Cell's figure requirements?
Cell requires figures at 300 DPI minimum, TIFF or PDF format, RGB or CMYK color mode. Single-column figures are 85 mm wide; double-column figures are 174 mm wide. Line art should be 800–1200 DPI.
What file format does Cell prefer?
Cell prefers TIFF for raster images and PDF for vector graphics. EPS is also accepted. Avoid JPEG due to compression artifacts.
Does Cell require graphical abstracts?
Yes, Cell requires a graphical abstract for all articles. The graphical abstract should be 1200 × 1600 pixels, PNG or TIFF format, and should visually summarize the key findings of the study.