Journals and Corresponding Authors: What You Need to Know
When you submit your research paper to a scientific journal, one of the most important aspects to consider is the role and responsibility of the corresponding author. This article aims to provide clarity around the standard practices in how journals communicate with corresponding authors post-submission.
Standard Practices in Acknowledging Submissions
Every reputable and respected journal will acknowledge the submission of a manuscript. This is a standard practice that ensures transparency and professionalism in the peer-review process. Upon submission, corresponding authors can typically expect to receive a confirmation email. This is especially true when using an online submission system, where the journal's website automatically sends a notification to the author.
Variations in Journal Practices
However, not all journals adhere to the same practices, and some journals may deviate from this standard procedure. There are instances where journals do not contact the corresponding author immediately upon submission. Reasons for such practices can range from resource limitations, differences in editorial workflows, to the specific journal's policies. Understanding these variations is crucial for authors to manage their expectations effectively and stay informed about the progress of their manuscript.
Why Corresponding Authors Matter
The corresponding author plays a pivotal role in the publication process. They are responsible for ensuring that all co-authors provide necessary information and respond to queries, provide final revisions, and correspond with the journal during the peer-review process. Effective communication between the corresponding author and the journal is essential to ensure the smooth progress of the manuscript through the review and publication stages. However, it is equally important for the corresponding author to check the status of their manuscript regularly, even without immediate contact from the journal.
Steps for Managing Submission and Communication
For authors who may not receive immediate contact from their journal, here are some steps to manage the submission and communication process:
Check the journal's website for submission guidelines and contact details. Most journals provide clear instructions and email addresses for queries.
Utilize the online submission system to track the status of your manuscript. These systems often provide notifications on various stages of the review process, such as submission, acceptance, and publication.
Stay in regular communication with co-authors to ensure all necessary information is submitted on time and to verify that all required revisions are completed.
Be proactive in contacting the journal if you have any concerns or questions. Don't hesitate to reach out to the editorial office if the usual communication channels are not responsive.
Handling Unsolicited Journals
Some authors may receive submissions from journals that don't follow standard submission practices, such as not acknowledging the submission or not contacting the corresponding author. In such cases, it is important to assess whether to submit to the journal or not. Consider factors such as the journal's reputation, publication metrics, and fit with your research focus. If you choose to submit, remain vigilant and proactive in your communication with the journal throughout the review process.
Conclusion
While nearly every decent journal acknowledges submissions through an immediate email, it is important to be aware of the variations in journal practices. As a corresponding author, understanding these practices and taking proactive steps can help ensure a smooth and timely publication process. Whether or not a journal contacts you, staying informed and proactive about the status of your manuscript is crucial.