Peer review

What is peer review?

Peer review is a process used to maintain the quality and integrity of academic and scientific research. It involves the evaluation of a research paper by experts in the field before it gets published. These reviewers assess the paper’s methodology, results, and conclusions to ensure accuracy and validity. 

Based on the peer reviewers’ assessments, editors make informed decisions regarding whether to accept, reject, or request revisions for a manuscript. The process of peer review helps build confidence in the validity and credibility of the research being presented. 

Types of peer review

The 4 main types of peer review: 

• Single-anonymised review, also known as single-blind review: the reviewers know the names of the authors, but the authors do not know who reviewed their manuscript.  
• Double-anonymised review: the reviewers do not know the names of the authors, and the authors do not know who reviewed their manuscript. 
• Open peer review:  the authors know who the reviewers are, and the reviewers know the names of the authors. 
• Transparent peer review: the reviewers know the names of the authors, but the authors do not know who reviewed their manuscript unless the reviewer chooses to sign their report. If the manuscript is accepted, the anonymous reviewer reports are published alongside the article and the authors’ response to the reviewer. 

The webpages for your chosen journal will explain which type they use. 

What is the purpose of peer review?

Peer review is designed to be a constructive process. Reviewers may suggest revisions, point out weaknesses, or offer insights that can help improve the paper.