Author: Roger Watson

Is your editorial board working?

Roger Watson, BSc PhD FRCP Edin FAAN

At the Trailhead

  • Why this matters: Active editorial boards strengthen journal quality and credibility.
  • What judgment this supports: Define expectations, evaluate performance, and renew membership based on contribution.
  • How an editor might use this: Review your board annually and align membership with the journal's needs.

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How should editors use the EQUATOR network when evaluating manuscripts?

Roger Watson, BSc PhD FRCP Edin FAAN

At the Trailhead

  • Why this matters: Reporting guidelines are widely recommended, but editors must decide how strictly to apply them and how to avoid turning them into box-ticking exercises.
  • What judgment this supports: When to require reporting guidelines, whether to desk reject manuscripts that do not use them appropriately, and how to balance checklist compliance with editorial judgment.
  • How an editor might use this: To revise author instructions, incorporate checklist requirements into submission workflows, strengthen editorial triage, or guide decision letters when reporting standards are not met.

This content is part of the Working Guide to Editorial Systems.

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and to learn more about the systems that shape scholarly publishing.

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Why do editors reject manuscripts without peer review?

Desk rejection is an essential editorial function that enables editors to manage submissions effectively, based on criteria like scope and fit. While it can feel personal for authors, it's a routine decision for editors to maintain workflow. Understanding this process can help authors navigate publication challenges and accept decisions more objectively.
Author: Roger Watson
DOI: https://doi.org/10.67130/wges.2026.001 . . .

This content is part of the Working Guide to Editorial Systems.

Access is available to subscribers.

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and to learn more about the systems that shape scholarly publishing.

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Past, Present, and Future: Using Verb Tenses Correctly in Scientific Research Manuscripts

Roger Watson emphasizes the importance of correct verb tense usage in scientific manuscripts. Consistent application aids clarity for editors and reviewers, distinguishing known facts from research actions. Different manuscript sections require specific tenses: past for methods and results, present for current facts, and future for recommendations. Proper tense management ensures logical coherence.

The Transformative Impact of Generative AI on Academic Writing

The rise of generative AI has transformed academic writing by providing tools for editing, translation, and document creation. While it offers significant advantages, such as increased efficiency and support for non-native English speakers, it raises ethical concerns regarding authorship, originality, and detection of misuse, necessitating careful consideration by researchers and publishers.