A thesis as a collection of articles or series of papers, also known as a thesis by published works or article thesis, is a doctorate dissertation that, unlike a cohesive monograph, consists of a collection of research papers with an opening portion consisting of summary chapters. A thesis is usually required when applying for academic positions such as professorships and research chairs. Academic journals require authors to submit manuscripts known as articles for publication. These articles are often based on original research conducted while working on a project or activity under supervision. As with many other forms of writing, the number of words used in an article can be limited by the size of the print medium or by the restrictions of space within a journal. However, an article cannot be a compilation of sub-parts or sections without a continuous thread of meaning or purpose. An article can be any length but is most commonly between 6,000 and 10,000 words long. Although it is acceptable to write longer articles, those who do so risk being rejected by publishers. Trials run by the United States Supreme Court are often described as articles because they typically review several cases and may even include a concurring opinion by one of the justices. In contrast, briefs are usually written on a single subject and should not exceed 7,500 words. In academia, an article thesis is the final stage in the doctoral degree process.