Journal Selection Service
Choosing a journal is one of the most important decisions in the publication process, especially for early-career researchers.
A journal may look suitable based on its title or Impact Factor but still be a poor match because of its scope, readership, article type, publication model, or editorial priorities.
Our Expert Journal Selection Service helps you identify realistic and appropriate publication options based on your manuscript and your individual publishing priorities.
You receive 3–5 recommended journals, together with an expert assessment explaining why each journal may be suitable and what you should consider before submission.
Who Is This Service For?
This service is particularly helpful if you:
- Are preparing your first or early journal submissions.
- Are unsure which journals are realistic for your manuscript.
- Have several possible journals but do not know how to compare them.
- Have previously received an editorial rejection because your manuscript was outside a journal's scope.
- Need to balance journal reputation, publication speed, Open Access options, costs, and career requirements.
- Need journals indexed in specific databases such as Web of Science, SCI, SSCI, or Scopus.
What You Receive
Our expert will recommend 3–5 journals based on both your manuscript and your publication goals.
Rather than simply generating a list of journal names, we explain the reasoning behind the recommendations so that you can make an informed final decision.
You will receive a detailed Journal Selection Report covering:
- Journal scope and research fit
- Relevant subject areas and readership
- Publisher information
- Indexing status
- Impact Factor or other relevant journal indicators, where applicable
- Publication frequency
- Peer-review model
- Open Access and subscription options
- Article Processing Charges (APCs), where applicable
- Other practical considerations relevant to submission
You may also provide journals you are already considering. Our expert can assess these alongside other suitable options.
How Do We Select Journals?
Research Fit
We consider whether your topic, research question, methodology, article type, and contribution align with the journal's aims and scope.
Research Contribution
We consider the significance, originality, and likely audience of the research when assessing appropriate journal positioning.
Manuscript Readiness
We look at the current quality and presentation of the manuscript and whether it appears appropriate for the journals being considered.
Indexing and Visibility
Where relevant to your goals, we consider databases such as:
- Web of Science
- SCI / SCIE
- SSCI
- Scopus
Journal indicators such as Impact Factor may also be considered, but they are treated as one factor among several rather than the sole basis for journal selection.
Publication Timeline
Where information is available, we consider:
- Publication frequency
- Peer-review process
- Typical publication timelines
- Online-first publication options