Which of the following is the most appropriate step to take if authors believe that their manuscript was reviewed unfairly?

General
1

which of the following is the most appropriate step to take if authors believe that their manuscript was reviewed unfairly?

2

LectureNotes is correct. If authors believe that their manuscript was reviewed unfairly, the most appropriate step to take is to submit a formal complaint to the journal editor. Here’s why:

  1. Addressing the Issue with the Journal Editor: The journal editor is responsible for overseeing the peer review process and ensuring its fairness. By submitting a formal complaint, authors can bring their concerns to the attention of the editor. The editor can then investigate the matter and take appropriate action if necessary.

  2. Providing Evidence of Unfair Review: When submitting a complaint, authors should provide specific evidence to support their claim of unfair review. This may include highlighting any inaccuracies in the reviewer’s comments, inconsistencies in the feedback, or potential conflicts of interest.

  3. Seeking Resolution and Fair Treatment: By submitting a formal complaint, authors aim to seek a resolution to the issue and ensure fair treatment. The journal editor has the authority to reevaluate the manuscript, assign it to different reviewers, or provide a response addressing the concerns raised by the authors.

  4. Maintaining Professionalism: It is important for authors to address their concerns in a professional and respectful manner when submitting a complaint to the journal editor. This helps to maintain a constructive dialogue and increases the likelihood of a fair resolution.

  5. Exploring Other Options: If authors are unsatisfied with the response received from the journal editor or believe that their complaint was not adequately addressed, they may consider escalating the complaint to higher authorities, such as the journal’s editorial board or professional associations related to the field of study.

Overall, submitting a formal complaint to the journal editor is the appropriate initial step for authors who believe their manuscript was reviewed unfairly. It allows for the concerns to be properly addressed and increases the chances of a fair resolution.