What should authors consider if their chosen journal is not a good fit for their manuscript?

Choosing one or more backup journals is a strategic approach authors should consider if their chosen journal is not the best fit for their manuscript. This option allows authors to efficiently manage the publication process. It acknowledges the reality that not every manuscript aligns perfectly with the scope, audience, or specific requirements of a journal, which can lead to a longer submission and review process if the author waits too long or makes drastic changes.

By selecting alternative journals, authors can ensure they are ready to submit quickly if their first choice does not accept the manuscript, thereby minimizing downtime and keeping the momentum of the publication process. This proactive strategy is particularly beneficial in the competitive landscape of academic publishing, where timely dissemination of research is critical.

Additionally, it is important to maintain adherence to ethical guidelines, which specify that authors should not submit the same manuscript to multiple journals simultaneously until a decision has been made. This practice ensures that authors respect the review process of their chosen journals while also being prepared with alternative options.