Every manuscript follows the seven stages below. Peer review informs the editor's judgement, and the editor communicates each decision to the corresponding author. Handling time depends on the manuscript; no fixed turnaround is stated.
Editorial workflow
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Submission
Authors submit online with the manuscript files, author details, declarations and metadata, following the author guidelines.
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Initial screening
The editorial office checks completeness, and an editor assesses scope, relevance and readiness. A submission may be returned for missing information or may not proceed.
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Peer review
When external review is requested, independent reviewers assess the manuscript to inform the editor.
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Editorial decision
The editor considers the manuscript and any reviews, then sends one of four decisions to the corresponding author: accept, minor revision, major revision or reject. The decision letter is authoritative; a request to revise does not guarantee publication.
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Revision
Authors respond to the comments and upload revised files through the system, as set out in the decision letter.
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Acceptance
Acceptance is an editorial decision communicated by the journal.
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Publication
Accepted articles are prepared for publication; the journal explains any action needed from authors, then publishes the article online.
Questions about a decision? Contact the editorial officeAuthor guidelines
