RESPONDING TO EDITORS

Some time after submitting your manuscript, you will receive comments from the editor. This will usually comprise a letter accompanied by comments from referees. Normally, you will not be told the identity of the referees.

You must brace yourself. None of us ever open the letter without some anxiety.

No-one, not even the strongest of us, likes to be told that our work is less than perfect. It is painful. In the majority of cases, editors (and reviewers) will be trying to help you produce high quality science.

Nevertheless, it is easy to be hurt and to react emotionally.

Feedback from the editors and referees is a dish best eaten cold. Never respond immediately. Give yourself a few days to reflect.

Editors will do their best to be courteous and gentle, but they also need to be clear to avoid being misunderstood. This can be difficult.