Collect data carefully and properly
follow Data Management Plan
Prepare figures -> write the draft of the manuscript
( this order often helps)
Identify proper journals
which ones do you read? What is the impact of your work?
Write the final draft of your manuscript following the guidelines from the journal
Send the manuscript for corrections to the co-Authors
you may also ask them to write relevant parts
Submit the final version
(you or the corresponding author)
Wait for the assignment of the Editor and Reviewers
usually 2-3 external reviewers/other scientists from the field. You may exclude competitors
Wait for the feedback
Accepted without corrections (very rare)
Accepted after minor revision (quick, few small adjustments)
Accepted after a major revision (more work, but good chances for the acceptance)
Rejected – why? Do you want to submit it to another journal or revise it first?
Write an answer to the Reviewers
Be polite, even if they didn’t read carefully in your opinion
After acceptance – celebrate