Writing to the Journal Editor: Seeking clarity on the status of your paper
Crafting a manuscript while meticulously following the journal's guidelines and then enduring the anxious anticipation that accompanies the peer review process can undoubtedly stir a whirlwind of emotions in researchers.
Peer review and editorial decision-making are critical processes in publishing research. The process of editorial decision-making may slightly vary among journals. However, some common steps involved in peer review and editorial decision-making include:
• Submission
• Preliminary Evaluation
• Assignment to Editors
• Editor's Evaluation
• Peer Review
• Editorial Decision
• Author Revision
• Final Evaluation
• Final Decision
• Publication
The entire peer review and editorial process can be as long as a few weeks to a couple of months, depending on the journal and the complexity of your paper. Check the journal's website to know their timeline. Before inquiring the status of your paper, make sure you've not received any response from the journal even after the timeline.
On an average, journals take 45 days to process and arrive at a final decision. However, if you haven’t received a response even after this time, you can write to the journal editor to ease your anxiety and gain insights into the progress of your paper. However, before reaching out to the journal editor, it is important to wait for an appropriate amount of time. Rushing the inquiry process can potentially annoy the editor team.
Here are the steps to approach journals to inquire about the status of your manuscript:
1. Find the Right Contact
Identifying the correct contact person is crucial when inquiring about your paper's status. Look for the editor-in-chief, managing editor, or the designated contact person for inquiries regarding submissions on the journal's website. Avoid sending your email to multiple people at once.
2. Craft a Polite and Professional Email
When composing your email, remember that professionalism is the key. Here's a template you can use for reference:
3. Be Patient and Respectful
After sending your inquiry, it's important to be patient. Editors and reviewers are often swamped with multiple submissions and other responsibilities. It may take some time for them to respond. While waiting, avoid sending multiple follow-up emails unless you receive no response for an extended period.
4. Respond Appropriately
After receiving a response, whether it's an update on your paper's status or a request for revisions, respond promptly and professionally. Address any concerns or questions raised by the editor and follow their guidance closely. This will help move the review process along smoothly.
Inquiring about the status of your paper is an important step in the publication process. Writers must inquire the status of their manuscript to track the progress and plan their future steps. Crafting a meticulously polite and profoundly effective email to the esteemed journal editor is the gateway to unlocking invaluable insights into the journey of your manuscript. However, the bedrock to communicate with journal editors lies in professionalism and patience, they are the stewards holding the destiny of your research publication.
