Write a scientific paper (WASP) : editor's perspective of submissions and dealing with editors

Abstract

Once an author/s submits a manuscript to a journal, editorial and review processes are initiated which will determine acceptance or rejection of a manuscript. Understanding the editor's perspective and role enables authors to appreciate the factors that can ensure that the submitted manuscript meets the editor's expectations. This increases the chances that the manuscript passes the initial scrutiny and is forwarded for peer review. The reviewers' comments and recommendations make or break the manuscript and will take the form of comments for the authors as well as confidential recommendations to the Editor. Rejection should not lead to dejection. Authors need to digest the reasons for rejection, review comments and suggestions and incorporate them into the revised manuscript prior to identifying another journal for possible submission. If the manuscript is accepted with minor or major revisions, the authors need to make sure all comments and recommendations are dealt with. Once the manuscript satisfies the editor's and reviewers' expectations, it is on its way to publication.