Reviewer's FAQ

On Receiving a Request to Review

Why should I review?

Peer review is an essential component of formal scholarly communication and lies at the heart of the scientific method. Reviewing papers is part of belonging to the scientific community. It offers a "sneak preview" into research in your area of interest, allows you to have an impact on your discipline, and is a way of mentoring or learning within the field. Being asked to review is an acknowledgment of your importance in the scientific community. IJRITCC believes that all scholars who wish to contribute have an obligation to fairly share the task of reviewing.

Are there consequences for refusing to review a paper?

No. However, please promptly inform the editor by return e-mail if you are unable to complete the review.

What if I feel there is a conflict of interest?

Reviewers should not consider manuscripts where conflicts of interest exist due to competitive, collaborative, or other relationships with any of the authors, companies, or institutions. Please contact the editor to excuse yourself from the review process in such cases.

What if the language, grammar, or structure of the paper is very bad?

If the errors make the article extremely difficult to understand, please return it to the editor with a request that the author edit the material before resubmitting it for peer review.

What if the paper does not follow the journal's layout and style?

Authors are expected to follow the journal’s Guide for Authors. If the formatting issue is extreme and not addressed by the editor, consult with the editor or mention it in your review.

What if I don't feel qualified to review the research?

If you feel unqualified, please inform the editor promptly and excuse yourself from the review process.

Is the review process anonymous?

It depends on the journal. Some use single-blind, others double-blind, and some have an open review process. Contact your editor for clarification.

Completing the Review

How long do I have to complete the review? What if I'm running late?

Deadlines vary by journal. Please inform the editor promptly upon receiving a request and if you foresee delays. If unable to meet the timeframe, decline the review to help maintain editorial timelines.

Who can I ask for help if needed?

If you have questions about the content, contact the editor. For technical issues, contact the IJISEA reviewers' helpdesk: editor@ijisea.org.

Can I request input from colleagues?

Reviewing materials are confidential. Consult your editor before seeking input from a colleague.

Can I refer the review to a post-graduate student?

Check with the editor first. Generally, if the student is suitably qualified, it may be acceptable, but the editor must be informed.

What if I have ethical concerns about the research?

Contact the editor immediately to discuss any ethical concerns related to the manuscript.

What if I have seen this paper or large parts of it elsewhere?

Inform the editor of any substantial similarity or overlap you recognize between the submitted manuscript and any other published work.

Will I have to review subsequent drafts?

Usually not. However, if substantial changes were requested, the editor might send revised versions for your further comments.

Can I use the paper for training or research purposes?

No. Manuscripts under review must be treated as confidential. They must not be used for training or research without express written consent from the author and permission from the editor.