Submitting a scientific manuscript for publication is a critical step in your research career. Understanding the review process can help you navigate it confidently and increase your chances of success.
Initially, an editor evaluates your manuscript based on your cover letter and the content itself. If the manuscript does not fit the journal’s scope or quality standards, it will be rejected with a brief explanation. This decision can come within hours or take up to four weeks. If the editor finds potential, the manuscript is sent to about three expert reviewers. Finding suitable reviewers can be challenging, so this phase may take time. If you have not received feedback after three months, a polite inquiry to the journal is appropriate. Sometimes, you may be asked to suggest additional reviewers.
Once reviews are returned, the editor will communicate the decision: rejection, acceptance as is, or conditional acceptance pending revisions.
If rejected, carefully consider the reviewers’ comments. You do not have to agree with all suggestions but should improve your manuscript where appropriate before submitting it to another journal, ensuring it meets the new journal’s formatting requirements.
If revisions are requested, respond to each reviewer comments systematically in your response letter. Discuss any requests for additional experiments with your co-authors and provide scientific justifications if you decide not to perform them.
Revise your manuscript thoroughly, addressing reviewer feedback while respectfully explaining any disagreements. Submit both a marked-up version showing changes and a clean version through the journal’s submission portal. The revised manuscript may undergo further review rounds. Even then, rejection remains possible if concerns are not fully addressed. Once accepted, you may still need to complete formatting adjustments and review the final proofs carefully. Note that publication fees must be paid before your manuscript is published.
After publication, your manuscript will appear online and shortly thereafter in databases such as PubMed Central. Share your achievement with colleagues on social media to increase visibility and citation potential.
BioDoks supports you throughout your scientific writing and publication journey with precise, professional guidance tailored to life sciences.