Top Criteria for Choosing the Right Journal for Publication

The conventional print journal paradigm for communication and distribution of information has been revolutionised by digital technology and new publishing models like Open Access and the global democratisation of publishing. Despite the great diversity of publishing options available in today’s digital world, writers confront an unparalleled difficulty when choosing a journal to publish their research. As of July 2019, there are approximately 80,000 academics and peer-reviewed English language publications active, with 30,000 of these journals are classified as Medicine and Health.

The credibility of their research findings when publishing:

  • Adhere to research integrity and publishing ethical norms;
  • Identify publications that adhere to professional scholarly publishing organisations’ recommended practises; and
  • Avoid posting in journals without a well-defined and thorough peer-review procedure.

Authors can search for possible publications by thinking about the journals they utilise for their research or clinical treatment. Journals from publications that writers mention in their study, journals they review, and journals linked with their professional associations are all viable journals. Mentors and colleagues may also offer advice on whether journals are considered relevant for a particular field of study or are suggested for tenure and advancement. For early-career writers and authors exploring a research topic outside their core expertise, consultations with mentors and colleagues are incredibly vital.

Publishing in shady publications can taint your research’s reputation, limit your career opportunities, and result in little or no dissemination and uptake. A superb place to start when choosing a journal for your publication is the publications you, your coworkers, and your mentors utilise for research and clinical treatment. The next step is to evaluate the scientific rigour and editorial quality of the papers in the journal you’re considering.

References

Suiter AM, Sarli CC. Selecting a Journal for Publication: Criteria to Consider. Mo Med. 2019;116(6):461-465.