Overview

The figure-reference-checker validates consistency of figure references in manuscripts. It detects orphaned references, ensures label consistency, and flags missing citations to improve accuracy before submission.

How This Skill Works

Run the Python script with a manuscript path (--manuscript). The tool scans the document, extracts figure labels and references, cross-checks them for consistency, and outputs a report highlighting issues.

When to Use It

• Preparing final draft for submission
• Auditing a manuscript with many figures
• Collaborating with co-authors to fix cross-references
• After edits to ensure no broken references
• Prior to grant or proposal submissions

Quick Start

1. Step 1: Run: python scripts/main.py --manuscript paper.docx
2. Step 2: Open and review the generated figure-ref report
3. Step 3: Fix references in the manuscript and re-run to verify

Best Practices

• Run on a clean copy of the manuscript
• Use a consistent labeling scheme for figures and references
• Review the generated report to fix orphan references
• Verify figure numbers and labels match across text and captions
• Re-run after fixes to confirm all references are resolved

Example Use Cases

• Manuscript with an orphaned reference where Fig. 5 is cited but not labeled
• Inconsistent labeling like Figure 2 in text but Fig. 3 in captions
• Missing citations for newly added figures during revision
• Large multi-section manuscript with hundreds of figures and cross-references
• Post-edit manuscript where renumbered figures created mismatches

Frequently Asked Questions