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Perspectives publishes several types of articles, organized into distinct sections.

In the "Articles" section, authors generally follow the traditional model of an academic journal by using the results of research or analysis to address a political problem or phenomenon, with a focus that is broader than the usual report on an individual research agenda. These articles can be as long as 10,000 words (approximately 13 journal pages).

In the "Perspectives" section, authors may offer short, sharp commentaries on a political phenomenon or policy problem; engage in dialogues or debates to highlight methodological or substantive disagreements; or provide insights into or evaluation of other works of interest to political scientists. “Perspectives” typically range from 4,000–5,500 words (5–7 journal pages).

In the "Review Essays" section, authors may review a small set of books, articles, or other "texts" in order to show how these materials illuminate a larger conceptual, political, or normative concern. Review Essays vary in length, averaging about 8,000 words (10 journal pages). While Review Essays sometimes originate in proposals submitted to the main Editorial Office, many result from invitations that our Book Review Editor extends to specific authors. In either case, the Editor and Book Review Editor collaborate in the editorial process for Review Essays.

Perspectives also publishes a variety of Symposia, Dialogues, Commentaries. The Editor will consider innovative proposals for any of these formats.

While the “Book Review” section is fully a part of Perspectives, and while the Review Editor collaborates closely with the Editor, the Review editorial office is a distinct operation.  The Review publishes single, double, and triple book reviews (typically 1,000, 1,500, and 2,000 words respectively).  It also publishes symposia, critical exchanges, and review essays.  The Review section does not accept unsolicited reviews nor does it accept requests to review particular books.  All pieces published in the Review are commissioned and edited by the Review Editor.  All pieces must be well written and clearly argued.  But unlike the Perspectives main section, the Review does not employ a peer review process.