Guidelines & Submissions

Previously Presented/Published Policy

TRACES requires that all abstracts submitted be original work, not previously presented at other conference, and not previously submitted for publication prior to the abstract submission deadline date. An abstract which includes an increased number of cases and demonstrates a significant change in results is considered new research; therefore, the work is eligible for consideration.

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Copyright Policy

In submitting his or her abstract (hereafter the "content") to TRACES for possible presentation at TRACES 2026, the author retains copyright to the content and agrees to give TRACES a limited, nonexclusive, royalty-free license to present the content on the TRACES website, in the Chronicle, and to archive the content for maintenance of the scientific record. TRACES agrees not to sublicense the content to a third party.

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General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) Notice

As an abstract presenter, the presenter understands and acknowledge that TRACES shares your information and presentation with our partners to enhance the programme and experience.

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Policy on the Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI)

TRACES is committed to fostering original, student-led research grounded in human-based reading, thinking, and writing. The initiative is designed to support intellectual development through authentic scholarly engagement, and participants are expected to derive the greatest benefit by prioritising their own ideas and analysis.

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At the same time, TRACES recognises that AI has become an increasingly relevant tool in academic work. Limited and appropriate use of AI is therefore permitted, provided that it supports — rather than replaces — original thinking.

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Acceptable Use of AI
AI may be used as a supplementary tool to assist with the development of original research. Appropriate uses include:

• Identifying relevant literature or sources beyond initial materials (akin to using Google Scholar, HKUL, Google, etc.)

• Locating data sources or suggesting avenues for empirical investigation

• Providing feedback on proposed topics, arguments, or structure (akin to a teacher, classmate, or friend’s advice)

• Assisting with stylistic editing to improve clarity and readability

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Unacceptable Use of AI
AI must not be used as a substitute for independent intellectual work. Prohibited uses include:

• Generating written content that is directly used or lightly edited for submission

• Producing arguments or counter-arguments without independent critical engagement

• Generating citations or references without verification and original research input

 

Declaration of AI Use
Any use of AI must be clearly disclosed. Submissions that incorporate AI are required to include an appendix titled “Use of AI”, placed after the references section. This appendix does not count toward the word limit.

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The appendix should:

• Provide a clear explanation, written by the author, of how AI was used

• Include supporting evidence (e.g. screenshots) demonstrating the nature of usage

 

Failure to disclose AI use may result in disqualification if it is found to violate TRACES academic integrity standards.

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All submissions are assessed according to the same academic criteria, regardless of whether AI has been used. Participants who do not use AI are not required to include an appendix.

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This policy ensures that AI remains a supportive tool while preserving the integrity, originality, and academic value of all work presented through TRACES.