Submission and Review Process
Preparing for Submission
Formatting
Carefully format your manuscript according to the journal's guidelines. This may include specific requirements for font size, line spacing, margins, and section headings. Ensure your manuscript is error-free and polished. Pay special attention to reference formatting, as this is a common reason for manuscript returns. Check that figures and tables meet the journal's specifications for resolution, size, and file format. Most journals provide detailed formatting instructions on their website or in their "Instructions for Authors" section. Creating a checklist of formatting requirements can help ensure nothing is overlooked before submission.
Proofreading
Thoroughly proofread your manuscript for grammatical errors, typos, and inconsistencies. Consider asking a colleague or professional editor to review your work for clarity and accuracy. A fresh pair of eyes can catch mistakes you might have missed. Focus on common issues such as subject-verb agreement, consistent tense usage, and appropriate word choice. Review discipline-specific terminology and ensure it's used correctly and consistently throughout the text. For non-native English writers, consider using professional editing services that specialize in academic or scientific manuscripts. Remember that well-written, error-free manuscripts progress through the review process more smoothly and are more likely to be accepted for publication.
Cover Letter
After you send your submission email, your manuscript will go through the following process
Editorial Process
MSPL operates a rigorous peer review process that aims to maximize quality. Overview of the Publication Process.
Peer Review
Expert evaluation provides constructive feedback, enhancing the quality and credibility of the research. Reviewers assess methodology, relevance, originality, and significance while identifying potential improvements or concerns.
Revisions
Addressing reviewer comments thoroughly strengthens the manuscript and demonstrates responsiveness. This iterative process may involve multiple rounds of revision to refine arguments, clarify methods, or incorporate additional analyses.
Editorial Decision
Based on reviewer recommendations and their own assessment, editors make decisions to accept, request further revisions, or reject manuscripts. This critical evaluation ensures only high-quality research meets publication standards.
Production Process
Once accepted, manuscripts undergo copyediting, typesetting, and proofreading to ensure accuracy and adherence to the journal's style. Authors review proofs before final publication.
Publication
The final manuscript is published online and/or in print, assigned identifiers like DOIs, and indexed in relevant databases. This culmination of the process makes the research accessible to the wider scientific community.
Introduction to the overall time required for manuscript submission to publication
Peer review (20-30 days)
Evaluating Recommendation (3 days)
Minor revision(15-20 days)
There are no major problems with the article in general, but the details are slightly modified.
Major revision (more than 30 days)
The article is heavily altered and the author may choose to drop it.
Revision Submitted to Journal.
The author revises the article as required and resubmits it to the editor.
Final Result (5 days)
Formal Acceptance and Publication(10-15 days)
The author signs to confirm the copyright and thesis contribution statement, and the assistant editor completes the proof, until the official online publication.
* In general, the time between submission and official online publication may be within 70 working days (Article version is printed quarterly)
Submitting to a journal can be a daunting process, but understanding each step can increase your chances of getting published. This presentation aims to guide authors through the journal submission process, from selecting the right journal to promoting your published work. We will cover key aspects such as manuscript preparation, submission guidelines, peer review, and revisions, providing practical tips and insights to help you succeed in the academic publishing landscape.
Whether you are a first-time author or an experienced researcher, navigating the complexities of academic publishing requires strategic planning and attention to detail. Each journal has its unique requirements and evaluation criteria, so it is crucial to approach the submission process systematically. Understanding these nuances can significantly impact the receptiveness of editors and reviewers to your research.
If Your Paper is Rejected: Moving Forward
Manuscript rejection is a common experience in scholarly publishing that affects researchers at all career stages. Understanding how to respond constructively can transform disappointment into an opportunity for improvement.
Read Comments Carefully
Study the editor's and reviewers' feedback thoroughly to understand the specific reasons for rejection. Look for constructive criticism that can guide your revision process.
Revise Strategically
Improve your manuscript based on feedback, addressing methodological concerns, strengthening data analysis, clarifying your arguments, and enhancing overall presentation.
Maintain Perspective
Remember that rejection is not a reflection of your worth as a researcher. Many successful publications were initially rejected by other journals. Use this as a learning opportunity.
Extract Valuable Lessons
Document what you've learned through this process to improve future submissions. Consider keeping a research journal to track insights about journal expectations and reviewer preferences.
After processing the rejection and making substantial improvements, consider whether to submit to a different journal. Research publication venues that might be a better fit for your work's scope, methodology, or impact level. A manuscript rejected by one journal may be warmly welcomed by another that better aligns with your research focus. Remember that even leading researchers experience rejection.
Key Takeaways: A Summary of Success
Choose Wisely
Select the right journal for your work to increase its chances of acceptance. Consider the journal's scope, impact factor, audience, and publication timeline. Align your research with journals that have published similar content to yours.
Follow Guidelines
Adhere meticulously to all guidelines to avoid common pitfalls. Pay close attention to formatting requirements, reference styles, word limits, and supplementary material instructions. Consistency in following guidelines demonstrates your professionalism and attention to detail.
Prepare for Length
Recognize that publishing is a lengthy process requiring patience and persistence. From initial submission to final publication can take months or even years. Plan accordingly and be prepared for multiple rounds of revision and correspondence with editors and reviewers.
Respond Respectfully
Address reviewer feedback professionally to strengthen your manuscript. Consider all comments carefully, even if you disagree. Provide clear, evidence-based responses to each point raised, and maintain a courteous tone throughout the process. Remember that reviewers are trying to improve your work.
Celebrate and Promote
Promote your work to maximize its impact in the academic community and beyond. Utilize social media platforms, scholarly networking sites, institutional press releases, and conferences to increase visibility. Consider creating accessible summaries for non-specialist audiences and connecting with relevant stakeholders in your field.