Abbreviations should be avoided in the running text. Common abbreviations (see Duden) such as etc., cf., e.g. ... can be used without problems. Specially introduced abbreviations should be used very rarely (put yourself in the reader's position).

The paper should use standardised symbols. If symbols from other sources are used, they should be adapted to the symbols used in the paper, while maintaining consistency of content (e.g. units of measurement, statistical symbols). This does not apply to direct quotations.

Tables and figures must be labelled with a clear description of their contents. If applicable, a brief explanation of the symbols used (regardless of their detailed explanation in the text) and of the notes added or taken over by the author must be placed directly below the figure.

Tables and figures must be numbered consecutively in Arabic numerals (1, 2, 3, etc.). Each table and figure must be referenced in the text using the number (e.g. "Table 2 summarises the state of research on financial incentives").

Where entire illustrations (figures and tables) are taken from other sources without modification, the source is cited in the same way as in the text. The source of the figure or table used is then listed in the figure or table caption.

If a given figure is modified by the student (by omitting or adding content), a 'based on' should be added to the source citation. Of course, if the figure or table has been created by the student, the source citation is not required. Instead, the note "own presentation" should be added.

Abbreviations that are not explained in the Duden dictionary must be listed in the list of abbreviations as well as being mentioned in the text. The first time an unfamiliar abbreviation is used in the text, the word should be written out in full, followed by the abbreviation in brackets. The abbreviation should then be used consistently.