Cureus is an Open Access journal that encourages the use of figures, tables and multimedia to present important data in medical research publications. Media-rich articles in the Cureus Journal of Medical Science enhance understanding, improve clarity, and support broader sharing and dissemination of research.
Adding Media to Your Article
What counts as media?
We consider all tables, figures and video to be media. Whenever you see media referred to in our instructions, you can safely assume that we mean tables, figures and video unless otherwise specified.
Where can I add media?
Media is not permitted in the abstract, introduction or conclusions sections of any article type. The only exception is the introduction section of a review article. Each article is permitted up to 25 media items.
How do I add, move or remove media?
To add media to your article first place your cursor in the desired location in the article section text field and click one of the Insert Figure, Insert Table or Insert Video buttons on the article section toolbar. You will then be prompted to upload the figure or paste the table or video URL and add a title and optional legend. For detailed instructions on adding each media type, please see below.
You can move videos, tables and figures up or down in the text by clicking the arrow buttons embedded in each media item.
Questionnaires as media?
All questionnaires that have been previously published must be properly cited in the article (mandatory). If the questionnaire is not Open Access, permission for its use must also be obtained. For questionnaires developed by the authors, these must be included within the article itself.
How do I choose between a figure, table, video, or interactive model?
Figures are best for visual findings, anatomy, imaging, charts, or workflows.
Tables are ideal for structured numerical comparisons or detailed data.
Videos are especially useful for procedures, motion-based findings, and demonstrations, while interactive models can help readers explore complex three-dimensional anatomy or structures.
Choosing the right media type can improve clarity and reader engagement throughout your article.
What makes a figure easier for readers to understand?
Effective figures use clear labels, readable text, strong contrast, and arrows or markers to identify important findings. Cropping unnecessary whitespace and using a concise legend can also improve comprehension.
Authors preparing radiology, pathology, dermatology, or anatomy figures should ensure that images remain sharp and easy to interpret on all devices.
What should be included in a figure, table, or video legend?
Legends should briefly explain what the media shows, define abbreviations or acronyms, and provide enough context for readers to understand the item without needing to search elsewhere in the article.
If references are required, they should follow the Media Guide instructions and be placed in the legend rather than the title.
Can screenshots from medical software or imaging systems be used?
Screenshots may be acceptable when they are relevant to the research and clearly display findings or workflow steps. Authors should remove patient identifiers, unnecessary interface clutter, and any copyrighted material that does not have permission for reuse.
For privacy requirements, authors should also review Cureus confidentiality and permissions guidance.
How can I reduce the chance of media-related delays during submission?
Common issues that slow review include blurry images, unreadable labels, excessive whitespace, missing legends, broken video links, nested tables, and visible patient identifiers.
Reviewing all figures, tables, videos, and permissions carefully before submission can help streamline the editorial process.
Are color images acceptable in research articles?
Yes. Color images may improve clarity, especially for pathology, radiology, anatomy, dermatology, and data visualization. Authors should ensure that colors remain distinguishable, consistent, and readable across desktop and mobile devices.
Can media improve article engagement after publication?
Clear figures, informative tables, videos, and interactive content can improve readability, educational value, and sharing potential by helping readers understand research findings more efficiently.
Media-rich articles may also support broader dissemination through professional networks and social sharing.
Should every figure or table be discussed in the article text?
Yes. Each figure, table, video, or interactive model should support the article narrative and be introduced in the preceding paragraph so readers understand its relevance. Referencing media clearly within the manuscript also improves flow and comprehension for readers.