Novelty, scientific sound of the manuscript, current scientific interest in the work described in the manuscript.

When you submit a paper to a journal for publication, as you know, it should undergo for a peer review. Normally, two independent referees check the manuscript. Referees are expected to comment on the methods used, reliability of the work, and its originality. Often, journals provide a checklist for proper reviewing. Some examples of the type of questions put to the referees are:

1. Does the article come under the subject area of the journal?

2. Does the article contain original work or is it a repetition?

3. Is the title clear, concise, and effective?

4. Are the experimental methods used are adequate?

5. Is it scientifically reliable—including the ethical and statistical aspects?

6. Are the interpretations of results and discussion in conformity with relevant facts?

7. Is the style of writing and use of English appropriate for the journal?

8. Is the abstract comprehensive and concise?

9. Whether the quality of illustrations /photographs attached with the article is adequate?

10. Does the manuscript conform to the journal’s requirements as indicated in the “Instruction to authors”

Make sure that your article fulfills these criteria before submitting it for publication. Your success in fulfilling these criteria decides the fate of your paper!

While submitting a MS in a good journal the author should ascertain that the quality of the MS is at least at par with those published in the relevant journal.

Great contributions!