Understanding Journal Rejection: Quality vs. Scope

Securing publication in a reputable journal can be a challenging endeavor, particularly when you receive a rejection. Various factors might lead to this outcome, with the foremost common reasons being either the quality or scope of the article. This article delves into the distinctions between these two types of rejections, providing you with the tools to identify the reason behind the rejection.

Distinguishing 'Out-of-Scope' and 'Quality' Rejections

Proper preparation prior to submission significantly reduces the likelihood of outright 'scope' rejections. However, the editorial process may still lead to rejections based on the article's quality, novelty, or timeliness. While a clear explanation from the journal about 'out-of-scope' is common, a vague suggestion that your article 'may not meet the journal's standards' is more likely due to issues with content quality.

Identifying an 'Out-of-Scope' Rejection

The easiest way to determine if a rejection is due to 'out-of-scope' is through the email notification. Journals typically provide a straightforward explanation if the article is deemed unsuitable for their scope. If the rejection is not immediately clear, you can look at the reviews to confirm. 'Desk rejections' are often delivered soon after submission and are not accompanied by reviewer reports.

Uncovering Key Differences in Rejection Wording

When your article has gone through the review process, the reasons for rejection may be more nuanced. Quality rejections (novelty, timeliness, interest) might be mentioned, but the language may be more cryptic and less direct. However, unless explicitly stated, the rejection is unlikely to be due to scope.

Utilizing Referee Reports

Reviewers' reports can be extremely valuable, offering insights and specific suggestions for improvement. If the rejection is not straightforward, you can request to see these reports. The reviewers might suggest making major or minor changes, indicating that the article has some worth but requires enhancement.

Common Rejection Timeline

The duration of the peer review process, known as the submission period, can vary, often ranging between 3 to 6 months. Upon completion, the journal sends a formal rejection email, typically provided within this timeframe. It is during this phase that you might receive feedback on the scope and quality of your article.

Scope Rejection

In cases where your article is entirely out of scope, the journal will be explicit about it. The rejection email will clearly state that your article does not fit within their publication criteria. Conversely, if your article has merit but falls short of the journal's expectations, the reviewers will likely request revisions. This allows you to resubmit after making necessary improvements.

Conclusion

Being aware of the differences between scope and quality rejections can help you navigate the publication process more effectively. By understanding the common indicators, you can decide the best course of action—whether to revise and resubmit to the same journal or seek new opportunities elsewhere.