Reviewer Selection Process and Guidelines

Steps for Selecting Reviewers

1. Verify subject expertise.

2. Confirm academic qualifications.

3. Assess research and publication history.

4. Check professional affiliation.

5. Conduct conflict-of-interest screening.

6. Evaluate prior peer-review experience.

7. Confirm availability.

8. Ensure ethical compliance.

Steps for Reviewer Conduct (Do’s)

1. Keep manuscripts confidential.

2. Review objectively and constructively.

3. Provide detailed, actionable comments.

4. Respect all deadlines.

5. Declare any conflicts immediately.

6. Focus on scholarly merit, not author identity.

7. Use professional language.

8. Report ethical issues.

Steps to Avoid (Don’ts)

1. Do not disclose manuscript material.

2. Do not contact authors.

3. Do not delay reviews.

4. Do not use unpublished ideas or data.

5. Do not allow bias.

6. Do not transfer reviews without approval.

7. Do not overemphasize minor errors.

8. Do not use personal or hostile language.