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Writing a Cover Letter and Response to Reviewers

Explore the possibilities.

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The main purpose of your response to reviewers is to tell the editors how you have revised your manuscript since your initial submission.   You should address each suggested revision made by the reviewers and explain how you have chosen to respond.  The document should be formatted in such a way that the editors can easily track changes made to your manuscript.  It should be organized by reviewer (e.g., Reviewer 1, Reviewer 2) and address the reviews point-by-point.  Comments and responses should be clearly distinguishable.

For example:

1.Your manuscript contains grammatical errors.  For example, on page 3, you used “their” when you should  have used “there.”

We have thoroughly proofread the manuscript and corrected all grammatical errors.

2. The second paragraph of your introduction needs more details about findings by Owl and colleagues (2017).  Be sure to explain their operational definition of “school spirit.”

We agree with Reviewer 1’s assessment of this paragraph and have decided to expand upon it.  We have provided a more detailed summary of Owl and colleagues’ findings, including the operational definition they used for “school spirit” for their study.

1. On pages 1 and 6, you did not include the year of publication in an in-text citation.

We have included years of publication as they correspond to the sources listed on the references page.

2. Two of the sources in your references lack a hanging indentation.

This error has been corrected; all sources are correctly formatted with hanging indentations.

Unless otherwise specified in the email your received from the editors, you may choose whether or not to make any suggested changes.  However, even if you do not change something that has been suggested, you must still address the suggestion in your response, and you must provide a compelling argument for your decision.

1. “Theatre” should be spelled “theater” because “theatre” is not the standard American English spelling.  This is a repeating occurrence.

While Reviewer 1 is correct that most Americans do spell the word “theater,” scholars in my field would accept the use of “theatre” in the context in which I use it in this manuscript.  Thus, I have chosen not to change this spelling.

Additionally, you should:

  • Use a professional letter format (i.e., address the correct audience, state your purpose, and be signed by the author(s) of the manuscript) for your cover letter.
  • Use a professional tone (i.e., use polite wording throughout the cover letter and response to reviewers, including when making your case for choosing not to follow a reviewer’s suggestion).
  • Make sure you have made any changes both within the manuscript AND described them within your response.
  • Make all changes and resubmit your manuscript, cover letter, and response to reviewers within the time frame allotted by the editors.

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How to Write an Effective Cover Letter for Journal Submission

Craft your cover letter for journal submission the right way with our expert tips! Learn how to grab editors’ attention and stand it out.

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When it comes to submitting a manuscript for publication in a journal, many authors focus solely on the quality of their research and the clarity of their writing. While these are important factors, it’s easy to overlook the role that a well-crafted cover letter can play in the submission process. A cover letter can be the key to getting your manuscript noticed by the editor and ultimately accepted for publication. In this article, we’ll explore the importance of a cover letter for journal submissions and provide tips for crafting an effective one.

What is a Cover Letter for Journal Submission?

A cover letter for journal submission is a document that accompanies a manuscript when it is submitted for publication in an academic or scientific journal. The purpose of the cover letter is to introduce the author and their work to the editor of the journal and to provide any additional information that may be relevant to the manuscript or the submission process. Furthermore, its purpose is to introduce the manuscript to the editor and provide additional information about the research and its significance. The cover letter should be concise and focused, typically no more than one page.

What Should be Included in the Cover Letter?

A cover letter should include several key elements to effectively introduce your manuscript. It’s important to personalize the letter for the specific journal, use a professional tone, and proofread carefully for errors. To make sure your cover letter is effective, there are several key elements that you should include:

Addressee’s Information and Date of Submission

Your cover letter should start with the date of submission, followed by the name and address of the editor or editorial staff who will be reviewing your manuscript. This information should be current and accurate to ensure your submission is directed to the right person.

Opening Salutation

The opening salutation of your cover letter should be professional and courteous, addressing the editor or editorial staff by name, starting with “Dear…”. Don´t forget to include the title and position of the editor you are addressing.

Purpose Statement and Administrative Information

Your cover letter should have a clear statement of the purpose of your research and the journal to which you are submitting your manuscript. You should also include any administrative information required by the journal, such as the type of manuscript (e.g. original research, review article, case report) and the number of words or pages.

Summary of Main Research Findings and Implications

One of the most important elements of your cover letter is a summary of the main findings and implications of your research. This summary should be concise and focused, highlighting the most important aspects of your research and why it is significant to the field.

Statements or Information Required by the Journal

Many journals require specific statements or information to be included in the cover letter. This may include a statement that the manuscript has not been previously published or is not under consideration for publication elsewhere, or a list of potential conflicts of interest or funding sources that may have influenced the research.

Previous Contact with the Journal

If you have had previous contact with the journal, such as submitting a previous manuscript or attending a conference sponsored by the journal, it is important to mention this in your cover letter. This information can help establish a connection between you and the editor, which may increase the chances of your manuscript being accepted.

Conflict of Interests and Financial Disclosures

It is important to disclose any potential conflicts of interest or financial disclosures that may have influenced the research. This information can help ensure transparency and maintain the integrity of the research.

Your cover letter should include a statement indicating that all authors have read and approved the manuscript and that the work is original and not plagiarized. This information can help establish the credibility of the research and the integrity of the authorship.

Suggested Reviewers

Suggested Reviewers are generally considered a best practice and are often recommended by journals. Providing a list of suggested reviewers can help to ensure that the manuscript is reviewed by individuals who have the appropriate expertise and background to evaluate the work, and can help to speed up the review process by reducing the time needed for the editor to identify potential reviewers. This can help expedite the review process and increase the likelihood of your manuscript being accepted.

Concurrent/Duplicate Submissions

An important consideration when submitting a manuscript for publication is concurrent or duplicate submissions. Concurrent submissions occur when a manuscript is submitted to more than one journal at the same time. Duplicate submissions occur when a manuscript is submitted to the same journal more than once.

In the cover letter, you should clearly state whether the manuscript has been submitted elsewhere or whether it has been previously published. If the manuscript is under consideration elsewhere, you should provide the name of the journal and the date of submission. If the manuscript has been previously published, you should provide the citation for the publication.

Closing Salutation

When closing a cover letter for journal submission, it’s important to maintain a professional and courteous tone. A common closing salutation is “Sincerely,” followed by your name. However, some alternatives that are also appropriate include “Best regards,” “Thank you for your time and consideration,” or “Respectfully.” Whichever salutation you choose, make sure it matches the tone of your letter and conveys your appreciation for the editor’s consideration.

Request to Exclude Reviewers

A request to exclude reviewers is a common feature of a cover letter for journal submission, particularly in cases where the author has concerns about potential conflicts of interest or bias that could affect the review process.

When making a request to exclude reviewers, the author should provide a clear and concise explanation of the reasons for the request and should provide specific details about any potential conflicts of interest or concerns that they may have. It is also important to note that some journals may have specific guidelines or policies regarding requests to exclude reviewers, and authors should familiarize themselves with these guidelines before making a request.

In general, it is recommended that authors provide a minimum of three to five potential reviewers who are not affiliated with the author or their institution, in order to provide a broad range of expertise and perspectives. When making a request to exclude reviewers, it is also important to provide alternative suggestions for potential reviewers who could be considered in their place.

Tips for Writing a Journal Submission Cover Letter

A well-crafted cover letter can help your manuscript stand out and increase your chances of being accepted for publication. Here are some tips for writing an effective journal submission cover letter.

One of the most important tips for writing a journal submission cover letter is to proofread it carefully. Typos, spelling errors, and grammatical mistakes can detract from the professional image you want to project. Make sure to read the letter multiple times and have someone else read it over as well to catch any errors you may have missed.

Keep the Cover Letter Brief

Another important tip is to keep the cover letter brief and to the point. The cover letter should provide a brief introduction of the manuscript and the key findings, as well as any other information that is necessary for the editor to understand the importance and relevance of the manuscript. The letter should be no more than one page in length.

Review Examples of Cover Letters

It can be helpful to review examples of cover letters for journal submissions to get an idea of the style, tone, and content that is appropriate. You can search for examples online or ask colleagues who have submitted manuscripts for publication for their advice. When reviewing examples, pay attention to the language used, the level of detail provided, and the overall organization and structure of the letter. This can help you craft a cover letter that is professional, informative, and effective.

Cover Letter Template for a Journal Article Submission

A cover letter is an important component of manuscript submission for publication in a journal. Using a template can help ensure that your cover letter includes all the necessary information and follows the proper format. Here is a guide to creating a cover letter template for a journal article submission.

The header should include your contact information, including your name, affiliation, and contact details (address, phone number, and email address), the date of submission, and the name and address of the journal.

Opening Paragraph

The opening paragraph should provide a brief introduction to the manuscript and its key findings. This paragraph should also mention the purpose of the manuscript and why it is relevant to the journal’s readership. You may also want to mention any previous correspondence or contact with the journal.

Body Paragraphs

The body of the cover letter should include several paragraphs that provide more detail about the manuscript. This may include a summary of the methods used, key results and findings, and implications for future research. You may also want to mention any notable limitations or challenges encountered during the research process.

It is also important to address any specific requirements or requests from the journal, such as a particular format for tables or figures, or specific information to be included in the manuscript. You should also mention any funding sources or conflicts of interest that may be relevant.

Closing Paragraph

The closing paragraph should reiterate the significance of the manuscript and its contribution to the field. You may also want to mention any potential reviewers for the manuscript or suggest reviewers who would be appropriate. Finally, you should include a polite and professional closing, such as “Sincerely” or “Best regards”, followed by your name and signature.

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Common Expressions for Cover Letters

When writing a cover letter for journal submission, it’s important to use appropriate and professional language. Here are some common expressions that can be used in cover letters:

“We are pleased to submit our manuscript…”

“The research reported in this manuscript addresses a significant gap in the literature…”

“We believe this manuscript will be of interest to your readership because…”

“Our findings have important implications for future research in this field.”

“We would like to thank the reviewers and editors for their time and consideration.”

“We look forward to hearing from you regarding the status of our manuscript.”

“Thank you for your time and consideration.”

These expressions can be used to convey important information in a professional and concise manner. When using these expressions, it’s important to tailor them to the specific journal and to make sure they are appropriate for the content of your cover letter.

Journal Submission Tips and Hacks from the Experts

Submitting a journal article can be a challenging and sometimes frustrating process. However, by following some tips and hacks from the experts, you can increase your chances of success. Here are some tips and hacks to help you submit your article to a journal:

Choose the Right Journal

Before submitting your article, make sure you choose the right journal. Consider factors such as the journal’s scope, readership, and impact factor. Make sure your article fits with the journal’s focus and aims.

Read the Guidelines

Read the journal’s submission guidelines carefully and follow them closely. Pay attention to formatting, length, and other requirements. Failure to follow the guidelines could result in your article being rejected without review.

Get Feedback

Before submitting your article, get feedback from colleagues or mentors. Ask them to read your manuscript and provide constructive criticism. This can help you identify potential weaknesses and improve the quality of your article.

Write a Strong Abstract

Your abstract is often the first thing that editors and reviewers will read. Make sure it is clear, concise, and provides a compelling summary of your article. Highlight the key findings and implications of your research.

Use Clear and Concise Language

Use clear and concise language when writing your article. Avoid jargon, technical terms, and complex language that could be difficult for readers to understand. Write in a way that is accessible to a broad audience.

Address Reviewer Comments

If your article is rejected or requires revisions, make sure you carefully address all reviewer comments. Be thorough and professional in your responses. This can increase your chances of acceptance in future rounds of review.

Keep Records

Keep records of all correspondence with the journal, including submission dates, reviewer comments, and decisions. This can help you stay organized and keep track of the progress of your article.

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Writing and formatting

In this section:

  • NEW! Featured Author Support
  • Language editing services
  • Reproducing third party illustrative materials
  • Suggesting reviewers
  • Writing a cover letter
  • Video abstracts
  • Video: How to submit your article

When submitting your article you may be asked to suggest 2-3 potential peer reviewers. The editors will not necessarily invite your suggested reviewers but these suggestions can help speed up the peer review process.

Top tips for suggesting reviewers:

  • Suggest people in your field whose view of your paper you would respect
  • You do not need to know your suggestions personally and reviewers will not know you suggested them
  • Make sure that your suggestions are not current or recent colleagues of you or your co-authors
  • Suggest researchers who know the subject well and are willing to invest the time (‘big names’ will often decline)
  • Consider the diversity of your suggested reviewers with regards to the following characteristics: gender, ethnicity, career stage and geographical location
  • We encourage suggestions of reviewers from traditionally underrepresented groups
  • Submit your suggestions through ScholarOne rather then contacting them yourself

Enago Academy

How to Suggest Reviewers for Your Paper

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The practice of suggesting peer reviewers by authors for their work is controversial. Peer review is a key part of the academic publishing process . Usually, qualified experts review submitted articles to check their quality and match for the journals. Usually, editors of the peer-reviewed journals choose these experts. The reviewer’s identity can be anonymous or disclosed depending on the journal’s policies.

Often journals require authors to suggest reviewers during the manuscript submission process. Potential reviewers are independent experts in your field of research. However, this practice can sometimes cause controversies and put authors in an ethical quandary.

Dos and Don’ts of Suggesting Reviewers

When you suggest peer reviewers for your work, you should stay unbiased. As scholars have noted , “An author-suggested peer reviewer choice might also tempt authors to seek experts who might be more receptive or sympathetic to the authors’ message or results, and thus favor the outcome of that paper.” But you should try not to fall into this trap.

Follow these tips to choose potential reviewers in an ethical way:

  • DO explore the research field to find scholars who might want to review your work.
  • DO give a diverse list of reviewers from different institutions, in different related fields, and with different points of view.
  • DO ensure that your recommendations are experts in your field.
  • DO take your time and be thorough when you make suggestions. Your reference list can be a starting point.
  • DON’T suggest experts whom you know personally.
  • DON’T list potential reviewers who work for your target journal.
  • DON’T suggest reviewers because they will agree with your work.
  • DON’T suggest reviewers who work at the same institution as you do.
  • DON’T have all the reviewers from the same country. It is important to have a global perspective.

Above all, DO follow the journal’s guidelines for suggesting experts for your manuscript. Some journals do provide a list of requests for author suggestions (see this example from Energy & Fuels ).

Related: Finished picking reviewers for your research paper ? Read this article to learn more about how to reply to referee comments!

Pros and Cons of Author-Suggested Peer Reviewing

Why is author-suggested peer reviewing so controversial? Because even the most honest authors might suggest readers who will view their work favorably. At worst, it may open the door to fake peer review . In addition, the editor of a peer-reviewed journal may not disclose to the authors, the reviewers he or she has chosen.  However, the reviewers still know that the author suggested them. This can influence the reviewer’s decision.

Research supports the problems with author-suggested peer review. Lutz Bornmann and Hans-Dieter Daniel published an article . They asked, “Do author-suggested reviewers rate submissions more favorably than editor-suggested reviewers?” The results were clear.  Editor-suggested reviewers rated manuscripts between 30% and 42% less favorably than author-suggested reviewers did, indicating that author-suggested reviewers give better reviews.

Though author-suggested reviewing has some ethical issues, it has some advantages too. Suggesting your own readers might help your work find a home. Today, research fields are very complex. Every field has countless sub-fields. No one is an expert in every sub-field. So authors might know better how to choose experts in their sub-fields.

Moreover, author-suggested reviews allow editors to focus on other tasks in the publication process. For some journals, assigning peer reviewers means a huge time commitment, which can divert journal’s resources, affecting quality. Though some people would disagree with this point, it is one potential argument for author-suggested peer reviews.

Share Your Experience

The peer review process is getting more complex every day. Have you been asked to suggest peer reviewers for your own article? How did you handle the situation? Did you find it ethically questionable? What is your opinion of the author-suggested peer review process? Write to us in the comments to let us know!

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enago academy is a good platform for new researchers to solve their confusions and to get required information on publishing research , finding relevant journals etc.

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Writing a Successful Journal Cover Letter (Free Templates)

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Even great manuscripts often stand out based on the title or its contents alone. They need great cover letters.

Cover letters for journal submission are an underrated part of the submission process. Don’t overlook them. They’re a valuable step to getting your research noticed, published, and all the good things that come after that.

The truth is, most journal editors just don’t have the time to thoroughly read every submitted article in full to decide if it’s suitable for their journal. They use cover letters to help them filter out the most interesting and appropriate submissions first.

Cover letters also help identify articles completely out of the journal’s scope and that would be better off getting a quick letter of rejection.

If your manuscript doesn’t have a cover letter and the 12 other articles on the editor’s desk do, it’s likely that your paper will be looked at last. Putting in that extra effort, just like on a job application, lets you sell your research, avoid quick rejections, and more likely make it to peer review.

We also have some journal cover letter templates and examples for you, so you don’t have to start from zero. Read on.

What do you put in a journal cover letter?

Your cover letter needs certain basic elements. Generally they are:

  • Editor and target journal
  • Salutation (Dear Dr. …)
  • Indication you’re submitting your manuscript, along with its title, and the category of manuscript you’re submitting (Original Report, Review , Case Study, etc.) based on what the journal accepts
  • Background information regarding your work – what is already known about the subject matter?
  • What your study was
  • Why you performed the study (rationale)
  • Briefly, what methods you used and what your key findings were
  • Why your manuscript is a great fit for this journal
  • (optional, depending on the journal and on if you want to do this) Recommended reviewers
  • (optional, depending on the journal) Funding information
  • Closing line (Sincerely, etc.) and the name and contact details for the manuscript’s corresponding author

Those are the key elements. It’s how you express them and the quality of your message that mean the different between a dry overview and an attractive promotion of your work.

Many journals don’t have a prescribed format for the cover letter. On the other end of the spectrum are PLOS ONE’s guidelines , which give specifics on what to include, including selecting Academic Editors from its directory.

Always check the guidelines first to be sure you give the journal what it wants. Those are basics. With a grasp of those, there are many ways to polish your cover letter into a valuable sales tool for your work.

What to do and what to avoid in your journal cover letter

Most “problems with journal cover letters relate to simply not spending enough time and care on it. Or even not doing it at all. These are easily fixed if you’re a skilled English writer. If not, they’re still easily fixed with a little help.

All of the following are critical. Make sure you DO:

  • Check the name of your target journal.
  • Address the cover letter to the relevant person. It is not enough to simply say “Dear Editor” or “To whom it may concern.” Include the name, title and position of the editor you are addressing.
  • Avoid superlatives – about the journal, yourself and your own work. It’s pretty unlikely your work is “groundbreaking” or “trailblazing,” though it may by the “first time ever” that a certain approach was taken with a certain population.
  • Check the formatting. This varies by journal. It includes US vs. UK vs. Oxford English spelling, correct page numbering, use of templates, and much more.
  • Get a colleague to read your cover letter before you send it.

cover letter reviewer suggestion

“ A typical cover letter just repeats the abstract. That’s a huge missed opportunity. You need to think of what the journal wants. Try to tailor your manuscript’s novel and interesting points specifically to the your target journal’s aims and scope. It may mean an extra half-hour of work for you, but if it helps get you published, isn’t it worth that small investment of time? “ — Geraldine Echue , PhD, CMPP Edanz Managing Editor

But don’t do this…

The following may not be critical, but they’re common areas that authors mess up. Sometimes they don’t know they’re doing it or they’re just trying their best. So be aware

Make sure you DON’T :

  • Take shortcuts. Your cover letter is very important for getting your manuscript to peer review; give it time and attention.
  • Cut and paste your abstract, or sections of it, into the cover letter. That’s low-effort and low-readability. Reword it to make it pop.
  • Over-praise the editor or target journal – it’s not necessary to use such phrases as “your esteemed journal.” A manuscript will be sent for peer review based on the quality of the cover letter and study, not because you say nice things about the journal.
  • Forget to use the Word (or other software’s) spellcheck and, ideally, use a tool like Grammarly and/or Hemingway to help grammar and readability. These are no substitute for a professional edit, though.
  • Be overly proud about your English skills. Just like you go to the dentist to get your teeth fixed, you can hire a professional editor and subject matter expert to get your English fixed.

Not that a lot of these also reply to resubmission letters and responses to peer review . The underlying themes are care, courtesy, and excellent English suitable for your audience.

And two more big DOs

  • DO get a professional edit or proofread if you’re not a native speaker of English or just not that great at writing.

DO have a professional write your cover letter for you if you want to save some time and make sure you got everything just as the journal wants it. The Edanz Cover Letter Development service can handle this for you.

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Set phrases and common expressions

The journal letter maintains a formal tone, so there are certain stock phrases you can use and in some cases must use. As a result, there are a number of phrases which are common to cover letters.

These include:

  • To our knowledge, this is the first report showing…
  • We believe our findings will appeal to the readership of [target journal name].
  • Please address all correspondence to:
  • We look forward to hearing from you at your earliest convenience.

cover letter reviewer suggestion

“I’ve found about 60% of authors don’t submit a cover letter at all. It seems they just expect something magical to happen with their manuscript. Journal editors struggle with this: they’re not necessarily subject-area specialists. They wonder, ‘Why is the paper important?'” — Gareth Dyke , PhD Edanz Author Education Manager

Commonly required statements

Many journals and publishers require that all cover letters should contain the following sentences:

  • We confirm that this manuscript has not been published elsewhere and is not under consideration by another journal.
  • All authors have read and approved the final manuscript and agree with its submission to [target journal name].

Competing interests

If all authors have no competing interests, you should include a statement indicating as such:

The authors have no conflicts of interest to declare.

If an author does have competing interests, it’s a good idea to include details of these in your cover letter. You might also include funding information:

This study was supported by a grant from the [funding body].

Other required statements

Some other potentially required information:

  • Clinical trial registration database and number
  • Has this manuscript been published in another language? If so, has that journal editor given permission for this submission?
  • What other publications related to the same study have been published? (especially for clinical trial related manuscripts)
  • Has the data in your study been presented or been published in any other format? For studies involving human subjects, was informed consent obtained? Was permission obtained from an ethics committee? Was the study carried in accordance with Declaration of Helsinki guidelines?
  • Was permission obtained for the reproduction or modification of previously published figures and tables (especially for review articles).

The journal’s guidelines will typically give specific directions on which of these to include, if any. And if you have any questions, get in touch with them directly.

Journal submission tips and hacks from the experts

Most of these are plain common sense, but if you’re in a hurry, you might overlook them. Some are less commonly known.

Be personal, use the editor’s name

Do your homework. Look up the name of the Editor-in-Chief or the specific Section Editor for the journal you’re submitting to and address the letter to them directly.

Use Dear Dr. (or Professor) + their Last name . If you’re not sure of their title, Google them to see if they have a LinkedIn page, ResearchGate page, or works published in the last couple of years. If you still can’t confirm their title, use Dear Full name as shown on the journal’s webpage .

It’s like a cover letter for a job; you need to personalize your cover letter to demonstrate your interest in that particular journal, and not make it look like you’d just be happy to get your paper accepted anywhere.

You should also explain why your study will be of specific interest to the readers of the journal.

Check the Aims & Scope on the journal website to see who their target audience is and tailor your reasoning to them.

Edanz Learning Lab – cover letters

Tell them what you want to publish

This may seem obvious, but sometimes authors submit cover letters without including the title of their manuscript and what type of article it is.

This should appear in the very first paragraph of your letter and will help the editor see immediately if the topic is of interest and judge whether they have space for the article type you’re submitting for the current issue.

Even more, it will show that you thoroughly read the guidelines. If you say you’re submitting “Original Research” when the journal calls it “Research Articles”, you’re not making a very good first impression.

Summarize the highlights of your work

It’s not enough to simply include the title of your manuscript in the cover letter and hope that alone will attract the editor.

Try to keep the cover letter to one page, but always include a brief summary of your study outlining the reasons why you conducted the work, your aims, and the major results you observed. If that makes you go a bit longer, it’s not a big deal.

Don’t include statistics or a lot of data; a compelling summary of the study is sufficient. If the editor is interested, they’ll look into your manuscript more deeply for further details.

Sell yourself

Cover letters are your chance to talk directly with the journal editor and convince them that your paper is more interesting than the next one sitting on their desk. Talk about any real-world implications of your findings or the significance of your results for the field. Don’t be too speculative or over-exaggerate your findings, but do take this important opportunity to feature the importance of your work.

Don’t forget your “must have” statements

Editors want to know that your manuscript has not been submitted elsewhere or is under consideration at another journal.

They want to know any relevant conflict of interest information and any roles the funding body played in the study.

The author instructions may or may not have explicit information on what they want you to write, but it’s good practice to state this information upfront. This way, the editor doesn’t have to dig through the manuscript to know if you’ve met the basic ethical requirements for publication.

See it in action: Edanz video on writing cover letters

We laid out the basics of a cover letter in this video.

And if you don’t want to start with a blank document…

Get a cover letter template

It’s all easier said than done, right?

Download a template to plug-and-play your text.

cover letter reviewer suggestion

Download the above short-form or long-form cover letter from the Edanz Learning Lab template collection .

“When I became a journal editor, I really learned how important cover letters are. We need them to learn more about submissions and to make more informed decisions on whether to send manuscripts out for peer review. As a journal editor, I greatly appreciate a carefully written cover letter; it saves me time and it shows me the authors really care. It also helps with reviewer selections … something I rarely have time to do.” — Gareth Dyke , PhD Editor-in-Chief of Taylor & Francis journal ‘Historical Biology’

By the way, not all cover letters are the same, though most are. PLOS ONE cover letters are a notable exception and have certain requirements for what you need to tell them, such as which of their Academic Editors you want to review your submission. See their guidelines here .

So, all set to do your cover letter? Now go find a forever home for your manuscript and tell them why they’re the perfect fit for you.

Want to dig deeper into the publication process, soup to nuts, ideas to publication? Take simple, expert-designed courses to walk you through it all, at the Edanz My Learning Lab .

cover letter reviewer suggestion

The peer review process is an essential part of academic publishing, ensuring the quality and rigor of research articles. Authors who submit their work for peer review often receive feedback and comments from reviewers and editors. Writing an effective response letter is crucial to addressing these comments, defending your research, and ultimately getting your manuscript accepted for publication. In this article, we will provide a step-by-step guide on how to write a response letter that effectively communicates with reviewers and editors, improving your chances of a successful publication outcome.

Understand the Peer Review Comments

Before you can start crafting your response letter, it’s essential to thoroughly understand the comments and feedback provided by the peer reviewers and editors. Read their comments multiple times, ensuring you comprehend their suggestions, concerns, and requests for revisions. If you do not understand a comment, ask others if they can provide some insight. If you are still unable to understand the comment, it is acceptable to ask for clarification. To prevent a delay in your response, answer the comment as you have interpreted it and ask the reviewer to confirm that your response actually addresses their comment.

Before addressing the comments, it may be helpful to categorize the feedback into different themes, such as methodologic issues, data analysis, clarity of writing, and references.

Maintain a Professional Tone

Your response letter is an official communication and should be written in a professional and respectful tone. Regardless of the tone of the reviewers’ comments, always maintain a respectful and cooperative attitude in your response. Avoid becoming defensive or confrontational, as this can harm your chances of acceptance.

Structure Your Response Letter

A well-structured response letter is easier for reviewers and editors to navigate and understand. Consider the following structure for your response letter:

  • Begin with a polite salutation: Start your letter by addressing the editor and reviewers by name (if known) and thanking them for their time and effort in reviewing your manuscript.
  • Provide a brief summary: Offer a concise summary of your manuscript’s key findings and contributions, reminding reviewers of the importance of your research.
  • Address each comment individually: Respond to each comment or suggestion made by the reviewers and editors. Number or list the comments for clarity, and address them in the order they were presented in the review report.
  • Use clear headings: Organize your response letter with clear headings or subheadings corresponding to each comment or group of comments. This makes it easier for reviewers and editors to follow your responses.
  • Be specific and detailed: When addressing comments, provide specific details about the changes or clarifications you have made in your manuscript. This helps reviewers and editors evaluate the thoroughness of your revisions.

Responding to Different Types of Comments

  • Acceptance or praise: If reviewers or editors have praised specific aspects of your manuscript, acknowledge their positive comments and express your gratitude.
  • Minor revisions: For minor revisions, you can briefly mention the changes you’ve made to address the comments and thank the reviewers for their helpful suggestions.
  • Major revisions: When substantial changes are required, explain how each comment was addressed. Describe the modifications you have made, referring to specific sections of your manuscript.
  • Disagreements or rebuttals: If you disagree with a reviewer’s comment, provide a well-reasoned and evidence-based response. Be respectful and open to dialogue, but also defend your research and methodology if necessary.

Provide Supporting Information

In your response letter, include supporting information that demonstrates your commitment to addressing the comments effectively. This may include:

  • Revised manuscript sections: Attach a revised version of your manuscript that incorporates the changes suggested by the reviewers and editors. Clearly indicate the revisions using track changes or colored text.
  • Explanatory notes: In some cases, you may need to include explanatory notes or comments in the manuscript itself to clarify changes or provide context for specific revisions.
  • Supplementary materials: If additional data, analyses, or references are needed to address comments, provide these materials as supplementary files.
  • Citations: Ensure that you’ve incorporated any suggested references or citations into your revised manuscript and list them in your response letter.

Be Concise and Clear

While it’s important to be thorough in your responses, also strive for conciseness and clarity. Reviewers and editors may have limited time to go through response letters, so avoid unnecessary verbosity. Provide clear explanations and justifications.

Proofread and Edit

Your response letter should be free of grammatical errors and typos. Carefully proofread your letter to ensure that it is polished and professional. You want to convey a sense of competence and attention to detail in your communication.

Seek Feedback

Before submitting your response letter, consider seeking feedback from colleagues, mentors, or co-authors. They can provide valuable insights and ensure that your responses are clear and effective.

Express Gratitude

In your closing remarks, express your gratitude once again for the reviewers’ and editors’ time and feedback. Show your appreciation for the opportunity to improve your manuscript through the peer review process.

Submit Your Response Letter

When you are satisfied with your response letter, submit it along with your revised manuscript through the journal’s submission system. Ensure that you follow the journal’s specific submission guidelines and requirements.

Common Phrases to Use in Your Response Letters

To help you craft your response letter, here are some common phrases and templates you can use:

Acknowledging positive comments:

  • “We are grateful to the reviewers for their positive feedback on our manuscript.”
  • “We appreciate the reviewers’ recognition of the significance of our research.”

Accepting minor revisions:

  • “We made the suggested changes to the manuscript as recommended by the reviewers.”
  • “The suggested revisions were incorporated into the manuscript to improve clarity.”

Addressing major revisions:

  • “We carefully considered the reviewers’ comments and made substantial revisions to address their concerns.”
  • “In response to the reviewers’ recommendations, we have conducted additional experiments and analysis, and the results are included in the revised manuscript.”

Disagreeing respectfully:

  • “While we appreciate the reviewer’s perspective, we respectfully disagree with this suggestion for the following reasons…”
  • “We understand the concern raised by the reviewer, but our methodology was chosen based on sound scientific principles, as explained in our manuscript.”

Providing clarifications:

  • “To address the reviewer’s query regarding [specific point], we included additional information in the manuscript.”
  • “We revised the text to provide a clearer explanation of [concept or method].”

Expressing gratitude:

  • “Once again, we would like to extend our sincere thanks to the reviewers and editors for their time and valuable feedback.”
  • “We are grateful for the opportunity to enhance the quality of our manuscript through this peer review process.”

Writing an effective response letter to peer reviewers and editors is an essential skill for authors seeking successful publication in academic journals. A well-crafted response letter demonstrates your professionalism, commitment to improving your manuscript, and respect for the peer review process. By understanding the comments, maintaining a professional tone, providing supporting information, and following best practices, you can navigate the peer review process effectively and increase your chances of acceptance. Remember that peer review is a collaborative process, and your thoughtful responses contribute to advancing knowledge in your field.

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Revising and responding

Once you manuscript has come back from reviewers you may be given the opportunity to revise it in accordance with the reviewer comments. You will usually receive a letter from the editor who handled your manuscript outlining the changes they would like you to make and links to the reviewer reports. This letter usually contains information on how to return your revised manuscript including instructions on how to highlight the changes made and when you need to return the revised version.

TIP: journals have different revision deadlines which vary from as little as a few weeks to three months depending on the revisions that need to be made. If you do not think you will be able to return a revised manuscript in the allotted time tell the editor immediately. They should be able to offer you an extension but it is best to discuss this with them as early as possible.

When revising your manuscript and responding to peer review comments you must:

  • Thank the reviewers and editors for their time and comments.
  • Address all points raised by the editor and reviewers.
  • Describe the major revisions to your manuscript in your response letter followed by point-by-point responses to the comments raised.
  • Perform any additional experiments or analyses the reviewers recommend (unless you feel that they would not make your paper better; if so, please provide sufficient explanation as to why you believe this to be the case in your response letter).
  • Provide a polite and scientific rebuttal to any points or comments you disagree with. Remember if your manuscript is sent for a second round of peer review the reviewers will see this letter too.
  • Differentiate between reviewer comments and your responses in your letter.
  • Clearly show the major revisions in the text, either with a different color text, by highlighting the changes, or with Microsoft Word’s Track Changes feature. This is in addition to describing the changes in your point by point cover letter.
  • Return the revised manuscript and response letter within the time period allotted by the editor.

The following is an example as to how to respond to a reviewer comment:

Reviewer comment:  “In your analysis of the data you have chosen to use a somewhat obscure fitting function (regression). In my opinion, a simple Gaussian function would have sufficed. Moreover, the results would be more instructive and easier to compare to previous results.

Response in agreement with the reviewer:  “We agree with the reviewer’s assessment of the analysis. Our tailored function does make it impossible to fully interpret the data in terms of the prevailing theories. In addition, in its current form, we agree it would be difficult to tell that this measurement constitutes a significant improvement over previously reported values. We have therefore re-analyzed the data using a Gaussian fitting function.”

Response disagreeing with the reviewer:  “We agree with the reviewer that a simple Gaussian fit would facilitate comparison with the results of other studies. However, our tailored function allows for the analysis of the data in terms of the Smith model [Smith et al, 1998]. We have added two sentences to the paper (page 3, paragraph 2) to explain the use of this function and Smith’s model.

Note that in both comments (agreeing and disagreeing) the author is polite and shows respect for the reviewer’s opinion. Also, in both circumstances the author makes a change to the manuscript that addresses the reviewer’s question.

Back │ Next

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  • The Japanese Journal of Gastro ...
  • Volume 47 (2014) Issue 11
  • Article overview

Department of International Medical Communications, Tokyo Medical University

Tokyo Medical University

Corresponding author

ORCID

2014 Volume 47 Issue 11 Pages 740-741

  • Published: November 01, 2014 Received: - Released on J-STAGE: November 14, 2014 Accepted: - Advance online publication: - Revised: -

(compatible with EndNote, Reference Manager, ProCite, RefWorks)

(compatible with BibDesk, LaTeX)

Preparing your manuscript for submission is a large task; however, creating a good cover letter is an equally important one. Although online submission has become extremely common, a cover letter is nevertheless required. Many years ago, before the rise in awareness regarding ethical issues, the cover letter was basically a mere formality. However, with the growing concern for author responsibility and higher ethical standards, it can be said that the cover letter carries more weight than it did 30 years ago, as it is the first formal document in the communications between the author and editor-in-chief. The cover letter should make it immediately clear to the editor about the novelty and significance of your study or findings, and why the specific journal and its readership would benefit from accepting to publish your manuscript. In other words, as the cover letter is probably the first document the editor will read, it must capture the attention of the editor by providing the main highlights of your manuscript to convince the editor that it is worth publishing. Furthermore, in addition to introducing your manuscript, there are a number of elements that should be included concerning the issue of publication ethics, such as conflict of interest, duplicate publication, and authorship.

A cover letter should be within one A4 page in length, therefore, all the information you provide needs to be concise. Although there is no longer any mention of double-spacing in the ICMJE Recommendations, the authors believe that it is still recommended to maintain double-spacing throughout all scientific manuscripts including figures and tables, but an exception to that is the cover letter, which should be single spaced.

In the first paragraph, you should give the title and format (such as an original research paper, case report, letter to the editor etc.) of the manuscript you are submitting. In addition, a cover letter should include statements indicating that the manuscript submitted is original, meaning that it has not been previously published in another journal or is being submitted to another journal simultaneously. In a situation where duplicate or redundant publication could be suspected, it is very important to explain the situation thoroughly to the editor-in-chief and also provide copies of any previous works that might be related to the problem. Addressing the situation openly and honestly in the cover letter before publication is crucial because if you are investigated for scientific misconduct after the manuscript has been published, it can be very damaging for your career.

1)  Hafner JH. The Art of the Cover Letter. ACS Nano. 2010;4(5):2487.

2)  International Committee of Medical Journal Editors [http://www.icmje.org/]. Recommendations for the Conduct, Reporting, Editing and Publication of Scholarly Work in Medical Journals [Accessed August 2014].

3)  The New England Journal of Medicine [http://www.nejm.org/page/author-center/manuscript-submission]. Accessed August 10, 2014.

4)  Ronbun.jp [Internet]. Tokyo: c2005–2014. [Accessed August 2014]. Available from: http://ronbun.jp.

When suggesting reviewers, you may wish to consider the location of the journal and its main readership and suggest potential reviewers from the appropriate region. For example, if you are submitting to a U.S. based journal, then it would be better to select 2 people from North American institutions and 1 from another geographical area such as Europe or Asia. It is also advisable to include papers written by suggested reviewers as references. Another important thing to remember, based on common sense, is to never tell your colleagues that you have suggested them as potential reviewers, as this may cause some hostility or possible friction between the possible reviewer and author.

  • 1)    Hafner  JH. The Art of the Cover Letter. ACS Nano. 2010; 4 (5):2487.
  • 2)   International Committee of Medical Journal Editors [ http://www.icmje.org/ ]. Recommendations for the Conduct, Reporting, Editing and Publication of Scholarly Work in Medical Journals [Accessed August 2014].
  • 3)   The New England Journal of Medicine [ http://www.nejm.org/page/author-center/manuscript-submission ]. Accessed August 10, 2014.
  • 4)   Ronbun.jp [Internet]. Tokyo: c2005–2014. [Accessed August 2014]. Available from: http://ronbun.jp .

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Research Voyage

Research Tips and Infromation

Expert Tips for Responding to Reviewers’ Comments on Your Research Paper

reading research papers

Introduction

  • Read the Reviewers' Comments Carefully

Keep your Response Concise

Avoid being defensive or argumentative, thank the reviewers, submit your revised paper, what should i do if a reviewer makes a comment that i disagree with, how should i address multiple comments from the same reviewer.

  • What is the best way to present revisions in response to reviewers' comments?
  • Is it appropriate to ask for clarification on a reviewer's comment?

How do I maintain a professional and respectful tone when responding to negative or critical comments from reviewers?

Although completing a research paper is a noteworthy achievement, the process doesn’t finish after the research paper is written. Reviewers will provide criticism of your work, and it’s crucial to effectively address it if you want to enhance it and raise the likelihood that it will be published.

In this post, we’ll examine pro advice and tactics for addressing critiques of your research paper. We’ll talk about how critical it is to read and comprehend the comments, how to respond to each one specifically, how to back up your claims, and how to keep a professional demeanor. Responding to reviewers’ comments in the form of a letter requires good professional email writing skills .

Here are some steps you can take while responding to the reviewer’s comments.

Read the Reviewers’ Comments Carefully

cover letter reviewer suggestion

It is crucial to take your time reading the reviewers’ remarks and comprehending the criticism they have made. This can entail going over the comments several times, going over the pertinent passages in your article again, and, if required, discussing the remarks with your co-authors or supervisor.

The context of the manuscript and the general objectives of the research should be taken into account while evaluating the reviewers’ comments. Consider whether a change is required for the article to accomplish its objectives, for instance, if a reviewer suggests one that would affect the focus of the paper.

It’s also critical to take the reliability of the input into account. Despite their good intentions, some remarks might not be well-informed. You may decide not to make the suggested adjustment in such circumstances or to ask the reviewer for clarification.

Even if the reviewers’ recommendations are challenging to put into practice or differ from how you originally envisioned the article, it is crucial to retain an open mind and be prepared to take them into account. Keep in mind that the reviewers are professionals in their fields, and their comments might help your research become more impactful and of higher quality.

Address each Comment Individually

It is crucial to be precise about how you have addressed the input in your edits when responding to each comment separately. This entails responding to each criticism in a straightforward manner, documenting the changes you have made, and describing how these changes resolve the reviewer’s issues.

Consistency in your responses to the reviewers is also crucial. Make sure the section has been updated if you indicate that a certain point has been covered in a particular section.

To structure your responses to the reviewers’ remarks, use a table or bullet points. You should also number your responses to match the particular comment you are addressing. This makes it simple for the reviewers to see your revisions and how you responded to their comments.

Additionally, bear in mind that the reviewer will read both the original manuscript and your response side by side. Therefore, whether it is a single page, line, or paragraph, it is crucial to be precise about where in the manuscript the modifications have been made.

You must keep in mind that the reviewers may have varying levels of knowledge and viewpoints, so you may need to modify your response accordingly.

Additionally, I suggest you to use, some professional grammar-checking software tool to correct any grammatical errors so that you should lose the impression of the reviewer.

I hope these examples provide some guidance on how to address each comment from a reviewer separately. Remember to thank the reviewer for their feedback and show that you are taking their suggestions into consideration as you make revisions to your paper.

Be Specific About Revisions

Be specific and succinct when addressing any objections you may have to the reviewers’ comments.

If you disagree with a comment or believe that a suggested modification might have a negative effect on the paper, it is crucial to respectfully and clearly explain why.

For instance, if a reviewer offers a modification that you feel will materially shift the paper’s focus or take away from the primary conclusions, you might wish to explain why you think the change is unnecessary or why it would lower the paper’s overall quality.

It’s critical to back up your concerns with evidence. This may entail citing more research from the literature or offering information.

Furthermore, it is critical to be open and honest about any study limitations, including any related to sample size or study design. These limits may occasionally be brought up by reviewers, but there are instances when it is preferable to address them proactively.

It’s also crucial to respond diplomatically and refrain from arguing or defending yourself. Keep in mind that the reviewers’ suggestions are meant to enhance the calibre of your work, and that an open debate can result in a stronger finished paper.

Here are some examples of how to respectfully and clearly explain why you disagree with a comment or believe that a suggested modification might have a negative effect on the paper:

I hope these examples provide some guidance on how to respectfully and clearly explain why you disagree with a comment or believe that a suggested modification might have a negative effect on the paper. Remember to explain your reasoning clearly and acknowledge the reviewer’s feedback while still maintaining the integrity of your research.

Explain any Concerns

It’s crucial to be succinct and clear when outlining your response to the reviewers’ comments in the cover letter. This entails summarising the key adjustments you have made to the revised article, emphasizing the key ideas, and describing how the modifications answer the reviewers’ feedback.

In the event that the reviewers haven’t seen the work in a while, it’s also critical to clearly explain the context of the modification. You may, for instance, remind the reviewers of the paper’s core research question, main findings, and main contributions.

It’s also important to mention any unresolved issues you still have with the manuscript or any part of the study that you believe needs further research, it’s an opportunity to convey your understanding and plans for the future.

It’s also a good idea to thank the reviewers for their time and work and to say that you hope the changes have enhanced the article.

Making a solid first impression is crucial because the cover letter is frequently the first thing the reviewers will read. A strong cover letter can improve communication with the reviewers and raise the likelihood that the manuscript will be approved for publication.

It is crucial to make sure that your amended manuscript adheres to the journal’s formatting requirements when you submit it along with your answer.

Making sure the paper complies with the journal’s requirements for length, format, and style is part of this. Additionally, it entails making sure the paper is error-free and that all of the figures and tables are of good quality.

Additionally, it’s crucial to confirm that the work is finished, suitable for publishing, and that all necessary adjustments have been completed. This indicates that every modification has been recorded, and every reviewer’s opinion and recommendation have been taken into consideration.

In order for the reviewers to quickly access your response while reading the revised manuscript, it is crucial to submit both your response and the amended manuscript as separate documents.

A copy of the initial submission, the reviews, and your response should all be kept for your records.

Last but not least, it’s critical to adhere to the journal’s submission requirements and deadlines. If you don’t, your paper might get rejected or postponed.

To maximize the likelihood that your paper will be approved for publication, the key is to be systematic, accurate, and professional.

It’s crucial to refrain from being defensive or argumentative in your responses to reviewers’ comments. This entails holding back from attacking someone personally or reacting unduly emotionally.

It’s critical to keep in mind that the reviewers are subject matter experts who are offering criticism to help your research become better. They are not your adversaries, and their remarks are not directed at you specifically.

Consider their viewpoint and the remarks as helpful criticism that can help you better your paper rather than getting defensive.

Additionally, it’s crucial to refrain from saying anything that could be interpreted as condescending or dismissive. Use of terms like “that’s not a problem” or “that’s not significant,” for instance, can come out as dismissive and may irritate the reviewers.

Additionally, it’s critical to refrain from blaming the original paper’s mistakes or omissions for your study’s limitations or other flaws. Instead, in the amended work, admit the shortcomings and describe the efforts you have done to resolve them.

You may keep a good rapport with the reviewers and raise the likelihood that your work will be accepted for publication by responding in a respectful and professional manner.

When responding to the reviewer’s comments, it can be helpful to incorporate some of the principles of yoga to help maintain a sense of equanimity and avoid becoming overly reactive or defensive.

One way to do this is to take a few deep breaths and focus on the present moment before beginning to read the comments. This can help to quiet the mind and promote a sense of calmness, which can make it easier to approach the feedback with an open mind and a willingness to learn and grow.

Additionally, it can be helpful to view the feedback as an opportunity for growth and improvement, rather than as a criticism of your work. This mindset shift can help to cultivate a sense of curiosity and openness, which can make it easier to receive feedback with grace and composure.

I have written a book on UNLOCK YOUR RESEARCH POTENTIAL THROUGH YOGA: A RESEARCH SCHOLAR’S COMPANION for the benefit of researchers.

I also suggest you to read one more book The Art Of Saying NO by Damon Zahariades . This will help you to learn how to respond and say things you want without being argumentative.

Provide a Clear and Concise Cover Letter

It’s crucial to be precise and succinct when summarising your response to the reviewers’ concerns in the cover letter. This means that you need to give a brief explanation of the key changes you’ve made to the revised manuscript and how they respond to the reviewers’ comments.

The most significant adjustments and how they improved the paper should be highlighted in the summary. It’s crucial to be detailed and to provide instances wherever you can. You may, for instance, point out a particular area of the manuscript that you have edited and explain how it responds to a reviewer’s issue.

Include any restrictions or unresolved problems you still see with the manuscript, as well as your plans for resolving them in the future.

In the event that the reviewers haven’t seen the work in a while, it’s also critical to clearly explain the context of the modification. You may, for instance, remind the reviewers of the paper’s core research question, main conclusions, and main contributions.

The summary should be succinct—generally, one or two paragraphs will do—and simple to comprehend. Additionally, it’s crucial to check your cover letter for spelling and grammar issues, since these could give the reviewers the wrong impression.

Overall, the reviewers can better comprehend the modifications you have made and how they have enhanced the paper if you provide a brief and clear explanation of your response in the cover letter.

It also helps to demonstrate your understanding of the reviewers’ feedback and your commitment to improving the quality of your research.

It’s crucial to thank the reviewers for their time and suggestions before submitting your updated work and response to the journal. You can either mention this in the cover letter or in a separate note that is sent with the application.

It’s critical to keep in mind that the reviewers are subject matter experts who have given up time from their hectic schedules to read and comment on your article. They have offered insightful advice that will assist you to increase the quality of your research.

If your paper is accepted for publication and you need to work with the reviewers again in the future,  having a good relationship with them now will benefit you in the future.

Saying something like, “Thank you for taking the time to review our manuscript,” or “We appreciate the insightful criticism supplied by the reviewers, which allowed us to improve the quality of our paper,” might be used to show your appreciation.

Additionally, it’s critical to keep in mind that the reviewing process is a two-way street and that input is intended for both authors and reviewers. 

Thus, expressing gratitude will demonstrate that you appreciate their criticism and that you are aware of the significance of the reviewing process.

In summary, expressing gratitude to the reviewers in a professional and sincere way can help to establish a positive relationship with them and demonstrate your appreciation for the time and effort they have invested in your research.

It is crucial to make sure your updated work and response are thorough and adhere to the journal’s submission requirements when submitting them to the journal. This entails delivering all necessary files, such as the updated manuscript, the reviewers’ comments, the cover letter, and any supplementary files like figures or tables.

It’s also crucial to make sure the work is formatted correctly and adheres to the length, style, and formatting standards established by the journal. This can entail checking that the document is double-spaced, contains proper citations, and has excellent figures and tables.

The title of the paper, the names of the authors and their connections, and any potential conflicts of interest should all be included in the cover letter.

Additionally, it’s crucial to adhere to the journal’s submission requirements and deadlines. This entails submitting the paper on schedule and using the correct procedures. If you don’t, your paper might get rejected or postponed.

A copy of the initial submission, the reviews, and your response should all be kept for your records. This can come in handy if there are any problems with the submission or if you ever need to refer back to the reviews.

The reviewing process can take some time, and it’s not unusual for amendments to be asked several times before an article is accepted for publication. As a result, it’s crucial to have patience.

Overall, you may raise the likelihood that your work will be approved for publication by sending a full and well-organized package, adhering to the journal’s standards, and remaining patient and professional throughout the process.

Handling Contradictory Suggestions

Contradictory recommendations from reviewers are a regular occurrence for researchers during the publication process. Reviewers’ differing viewpoints and assessments of a research article may result in contradictory suggestions for modifications. However, researchers can successfully negotiate these competing ideas and enhance their article for publication by taking a thorough and methodical approach to the situation.

In this discussion, we’ll look at the approaches researchers can use to deal with conflicting reviewer recommendations, including carefully reading and comprehending the comments, identifying the main issues, assessing the recommendations, coming to a decision and clearly communicating it, addressing any unresolved issues, remaining open to further discussion, and seeking advice from the editor or other subject-matter experts.

The following points need to be considered while dealing with contradictory observations made by the reviewers.

  • Read and understand the comments: Carefully read and understand the comments and suggestions made by both reviewers.
  • Identify the key issues: Identify the key issues or concerns raised by both reviewers and try to understand their different perspectives.
  • Evaluate the suggestions: Evaluate the suggestions made by both reviewers and consider their validity and potential impact on your research.
  • Make a decision: Based on your evaluation, make a decision on which suggestions to incorporate into your paper.
  • Communicate your decision: Clearly communicate your decision to the reviewers and provide evidence or reasoning for your choice.
  • Address any remaining concerns: Address any remaining concerns or issues raised by the reviewers in your response.
  • Be open to further discussion: Be open to further discussion and willing to consider any additional feedback or suggestions provided by the reviewers.
  • Seek guidance: If you are unable to make a decision, seek guidance from the editor or other experts in the field.

Here’s an example response that addresses both reviews while remaining respectful to both reviewers:

If a single reviewer makes contradictory views, it can be confusing and difficult to address. Here is an example response that addresses contradictory feedback from a single reviewer:

It’s critical to remember that the goal is to strengthen the manuscript and make it more publishable. Ensure that you have enough evidence to back up your choice, and be prepared to continue the conversation if necessary.

Few Conferences and Journals expect you to submit the final copy with corrections as suggested by reviewers in the form of a Camera Ready Copy(CRC). I have written an article on The Ultimate Guide to Preparing a Perfect Camera-Ready Copy (CRC) . Please refer the article to get further insights on preparing Camera Ready Copy(CRC).

In conclusion, it is critical to the publication process that you address the critiques received on your research work. You can effectively address the reviewers’ observations and enhance your paper by carefully reading and interpreting the comments, responding to each one individually, providing support, and adopting a professional tone. The likelihood of publishing can also be increased by adding adjustments based on reviewers’ comments and showing appreciation for their time and effort. You may successfully traverse the review process by using these tips and techniques, which will ultimately result in the success of your research work. Consider the reviewers’ comments as an opportunity to enhance your work and increase its effect. Consider it an opportunity to improve your paper so that it is stronger and publication-worthy.

Frequently Asked Questions

It’s important to address the reviewer’s comment and provide evidence or reasoning for why you disagree. Maintain a professional and respectful tone, and consider the comment as an opportunity to improve your work.

Respond to each comment individually and clearly, and make sure to address all the concerns raised by the reviewer. If the comments are related, you can group them together and respond accordingly.

What is the best way to present revisions in response to reviewers’ comments?

Clearly indicate the revisions you have made in response to the reviewers’ comments, and provide a summary of the changes made in the manuscript. It is helpful to use “Track Changes” feature in word processor to indicate the changes made.

Is it appropriate to ask for clarification on a reviewer’s comment?

Yes, it is appropriate to ask for clarification if you are unsure about the meaning of a reviewer’s comment. Maintain a polite and professional tone when asking for clarification.

It’s important to maintain a professional and respectful tone when responding to negative or critical comments. Avoid getting defensive or argumentative. Instead, focus on addressing the concerns raised by the reviewer and providing evidence or reasoning for your responses. Express gratitude for the reviewers’ time and effort in reviewing your paper.

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Content Reviewer Cover Letter Examples & Writing Tips

Use these Content Reviewer cover letter examples and writing tips to help you write a powerful cover letter that will separate you from the competition.

cover letter reviewer suggestion

Table Of Contents

  • Content Reviewer Example 1
  • Content Reviewer Example 2
  • Content Reviewer Example 3
  • Cover Letter Writing Tips

Content reviewers are responsible for ensuring the quality of the content on their company’s website. They need to be detail-oriented and have excellent writing skills.

When you apply for a content reviewer position, your cover letter is a great opportunity to show off your writing skills. Follow these examples and tips to write a cover letter that will make hiring managers want to meet you in person.

Content Reviewer Cover Letter Example 1

I am excited to be applying for the Content Reviewer position at ABC Corporation. I have more than five years of experience as a content writer and reviewer, and I am confident that I have the skills and experience to be a valuable member of your team.

In my previous role at DEF Corporation, I was responsible for reviewing and editing website content for accuracy and compliance with company standards. I also wrote and edited product descriptions, marketing materials, and other content as needed. I have a strong understanding of grammar, punctuation, and style, and I am skilled in using Microsoft Word and other software to edit and revise content.

Most importantly, I have a passion for writing and for ensuring that content is clear, concise, and accurate. I am meticulous in my review process, and I take pride in delivering high-quality content that meets or exceeds customer expectations.

Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to learning more about the Content Reviewer position at ABC Corporation and to discussing how my skills and experience would be a valuable addition to your team.

Content Reviewer Cover Letter Example 2

I am writing to apply for the Content Reviewer position that was recently posted on your website. I am confident that I have the skills and qualifications that you are looking for, and I am eager to put my experience to work for your company.

As a content reviewer for the past three years, I have developed a strong understanding of the review process and the necessary skills to identify and correct errors. I am meticulous in my work and I take great pride in delivering high-quality content. I am also experienced in working with a team to meet deadlines.

In addition to my experience as a content reviewer, I have a degree in English from a top university. I am confident that my skills and qualifications will make me a valuable asset to your team. I look forward to discussing this opportunity further with you in the near future.

Content Reviewer Cover Letter Example 3

I am writing to express my interest in the position of content reviewer that you have available. I believe that my experience and skills make me a perfect candidate for this job.

I have been working as a content reviewer for the past two years, and I have gained extensive experience in this field. My previous employers were very happy with my work, and they often praised me for my efficiency and accuracy. I have reviewed thousands of pages of content, and I can say with confidence that I know what it takes to produce high-quality content.

My experience has also taught me how to deal with different types of clients. Some of them are easy to work with, while others can be quite demanding. I have learned how to handle all kinds of people, and I can always find a way to satisfy even the most difficult clients.

I am confident that my skills will allow me to succeed in this position. I am also confident that I will be able to contribute positively to your company’s growth and success. I look forward to hearing from you soon.

Content Reviewer Cover Letter Writing Tips

1. show your writing skills.

As a content reviewer, you’ll be responsible for reading and editing content for a website or publication. In your cover letter, highlight how your writing skills will help you excel in this role. Some ways of doing this include:

  • Discussing a past project (or similar projects) that involved reviewing and editing content.
  • Mentioning any awards or recognition you’ve received for your writing skills.
  • Highlighting your attention to detail and strong grammar skills.

2. Customize your cover letter

Since you’ll be working with a variety of content, it’s important to show employers that you’re capable of handling different types of writing. Customize your cover letter by discussing how your past experiences have prepared you for this role. For example, if you have experience reviewing scientific papers, explain how you’re able to understand complex terminology and identify any errors.

3. Demonstrate your knowledge of the company

In your cover letter, it’s important to demonstrate that you have a good understanding of the company and what they do. This will show hiring managers that you’re interested in the position and that you took the time to learn about the company. Some ways of doing this include:

  • Reading the company’s website and blog to get a better understanding of their mission and values.
  • Researching recent news and events that the company has been involved in.
  • Explaining how your skills and experience are a good match for the company’s needs.

4. Proofread your cover letter

Just like with any other position, proofreading your cover letter is crucial for content reviewers. Make sure to spell-check and double-check that there are no errors in your resume or cover letter. Typos and grammar mistakes will give hiring managers a bad impression and may disqualify you from the hiring process.

Endoscopy Nurse Cover Letter Examples & Writing Tips

Records manager cover letter examples & writing tips, you may also be interested in..., veterinary assistant cover letter examples & writing tips, bar manager cover letter examples, pmo manager cover letter examples & writing tips, data scientist cover letter examples & writing tips.

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When submitting to Editorial Manager you may be asked to suggest potential reviewers, if so you may be required to suggest a minimum number of reviewers. In addition, you may be asked if you oppose any certain people as reviewers.

Authors are responsible for locating the reviewers to suggest, journals do not hold a central list of reviewers for authors to select from. Authors are encouraged to check the Editorial Board listings for a journal if they find it difficult to offer their own suggestions.

Not all journals support this function. You can check this, and specific requirements for suggesting/opposing reviewers, in your journal's Guide for Authors on the journal homepage.

Follow these steps suggest or oppose a reviewer:

  • At a minimum, most journals require a name, institution, and email address.
  • At a minimum, most journals require a name, institution, and reason that this person should not review your submission.
  • Start submitting your manuscript and select an article type. If the journal has enabled the Suggest and/or Oppose reviewer option, it will be under the "Review Preferences" submission step.
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How to write a great cover letter in 2024: tips and structure

young-woman-checking-her-cover-lette

A cover letter is a personalized letter that introduces you to a potential employer, highlights your qualifications, and explains why you're a strong fit for a specific job.

Hate or love them, these brief documents allow job seekers to make an impression and stand out from the pile of other applications. Penning a thoughtful cover letter shows the hiring team you care about earning the position.

Here’s everything you need to know about how to write a cover letter — and a great one, at that.

What is a cover letter and why does it matter?

A professional cover letter is a one-page document you submit alongside your CV or resume as part of a job application. Typically, they’re about half a page or around 150–300 words.

An effective cover letter doesn’t just rehash your CV; it’s your chance to highlight your proudest moments, explain why you want the job, and state plainly what you bring to the table.

Show the reviewer you’re likable, talented, and will add to the company’s culture . You can refer to previous jobs and other information from your CV, but only if it helps tell a story about you and your career choices .

What 3 things should you include in a cover letter?

A well-crafted cover letter can help you stand out to potential employers. To make your cover letter shine, here are three key elements to include:

1. Personalization

Address the hiring manager or recruiter by name whenever possible. If the job posting doesn't include a name, research to find out who will be reviewing applications. Personalizing your cover letter shows that you've taken the time to tailor your application to the specific company and role.

2. Highlight relevant achievements and skills

Emphasize your most relevant skills , experiences, and accomplishments that directly relate to the job you're applying for. Provide specific examples of how your skills have benefited previous employers and how they can contribute to the prospective employer's success. Use quantifiable achievements , such as improved efficiency, cost savings, or project success, to demonstrate your impact.

3. Show enthusiasm and fit

Express your enthusiasm for the company and the position you're applying for. Explain why you are interested in this role and believe you are a good fit for the organization. Mention how your values, goals, and skills align with the company's mission and culture. Demonstrating that you've done your research can make a significant impression.

What do hiring managers look for in a cover letter?

Employers look for several key elements in a cover letter. These include:

Employers want to see that your cover letter is specifically tailored to the position you are applying for. It should demonstrate how your skills, experiences, and qualifications align with the job requirements.

Clear and concise writing

A well-written cover letter is concise, easy to read, and error-free. Employers appreciate clear and effective communication skills , so make sure your cover letter showcases your ability to express yourself effectively.

Demonstrated knowledge of the company

Employers want to see that you are genuinely interested in their organization. Mention specific details about the company, such as recent achievements or projects, to show that you are enthusiastic about joining their team.

Achievements and accomplishments

Highlight your relevant achievements and accomplishments that demonstrate your qualifications for the position. Use specific examples to showcase your skills and show how they can benefit the employer.

Enthusiasm and motivation

Employers want to hire candidates who are excited about the opportunity and motivated to contribute to the company's success. Express your enthusiasm and passion for the role and explain why you are interested in working for the company.

Professionalism

A cover letter should be professional in tone and presentation. Use formal language, address the hiring manager appropriately, and follow standard business letter formatting.

excited-woman-in-her-office-how-to-write-a-cover-letter

How do you structure a cover letter?

A well-structured cover letter follows a specific format that makes it easy for the reader to understand your qualifications and enthusiasm for the position. Here's a typical structure for a cover letter:

Contact information

Include your name, address, phone number, and email address at the top of the letter. Place your contact information at the beginning so that it's easy for the employer to reach you.

Employer's contact information

Opening paragraph, middle paragraph(s), closing paragraph, complimentary close, additional contact information.

Repeat your contact information (name, phone number, and email) at the end of the letter, just in case the employer needs it for quick reference.

Remember to keep your cover letter concise and focused. It should typically be no more than one page in length. Proofread your letter carefully to ensure it is free from spelling and grammatical errors. Tailor each cover letter to the specific job application to make it as relevant and impactful as possible.

How to write a good cover letter (with examples)

The best letters are unique, tailored to the job description, and written in your voice — but that doesn’t mean you can’t use a job cover letter template.

Great cover letters contain the same basic elements and flow a certain way. Take a look at this cover letter structure for ref erence while you construct your own.

1. Add a header and contact information

While reading your cover letter, the recruiter shouldn’t have to look far to find who wrote it. Your document should include a basic heading with the following information:

  • Pronouns (optional)
  • Location (optional)
  • Email address
  • Phone number (optional)
  • Relevant links, such as your LinkedIn profile , portfolio, or personal website (optional)

You can pull this information directly from your CV. Put it together, and it will look something like this:

Christopher Pike

San Francisco, California

[email protected]

Alternatively, if the posting asks you to submit your cover letter in the body of an email, you can include this information in your signature. For example:

Warm regards,

Catherine Janeway

Bloomington, Indiana

[email protected]

(555) 999 - 2222

man-using-his-laptop-while-smiling-how-to-write-a-cover-letter

2. Include a personal greeting

Always begin your cover letter by addressing the hiring manager — preferably by name. You can use the person’s first and last name. Make sure to include a relevant title, like Dr., Mr., or Ms. For example, “Dear Mr. John Doe.”

Avoid generic openings like “To whom it may concern,” “Dear sir or madam,” or “Dear hiring manager.” These introductions sound impersonal — like you’re copy-pasting cover letters — and can work against you in the hiring process.

Be careful, though. When using someone’s name, you don’t want to use the wrong title or accidentally misgender someone. If in doubt, using only their name is enough. You could also opt for a gender-neutral title, like Mx.

Make sure you’re addressing the right person in your letter — ideally, the person who’s making the final hiring decision. This isn’t always specified in the job posting, so you may have to do some research to learn the name of the hiring manager.

3. Draw them in with an opening story

The opening paragraph of your cover letter should hook the reader. You want it to be memorable, conversational, and extremely relevant to the job you’re pursuing. 

There’s no need for a personal introduction — you’ve already included your name in the heading. But you should make reference to the job you’re applying for. A simple “Thank you for considering my application for the role of [job title] at [company],” will suffice.

Then you can get into the “Why” of your job application. Drive home what makes this specific job and this company so appealing to you. Perhaps you’re a fan of their products, you’re passionate about their mission, or you love their brand voice. Whatever the case, this section is where you share your enthusiasm for the role.

Here’s an example opening paragraph. In this scenario, you’re applying for a digital marketing role at a bicycle company:

“Dear Mr. John Doe,

Thank you for considering my application for the role of Marketing Coordinator at Bits n’ Bikes.

My parents bought my first bike at one of your stores. I’ll never forget the freedom I felt when I learned to ride it. My father removed my training wheels, and my mom sent me barrelling down the street. You provide joy to families across the country — and I want to be part of that.”

4. Emphasize why you’re best for the job

Your next paragraphs should be focused on the role you’re applying to. Highlight your skill set and why you’re a good fit for the needs and expectations associated with the position. Hiring managers want to know what you’ll bring to the job, not just any role.

Start by studying the job description for hints. What problem are they trying to solve with this hire? What skills and qualifications do they mention first or more than once? These are indicators of what’s important to the hiring manager.

Search for details that match your experience and interests. For example, if you’re excited about a fast-paced job in public relations, you might look for these elements in a posting:

  • They want someone who can write social media posts and blog content on tight deadlines
  • They value collaboration and input from every team member
  • They need a planner who can come up with strong PR strategies

Highlight how you fulfill these requirements:

“I’ve always been a strong writer. From blog posts to social media, my content pulls in readers and drives traffic to product pages. For example, when I worked at Bits n’ Bikes, I developed a strategic blog series about bike maintenance that increased our sales of spare parts and tools by 50% — we could see it in our web metrics.

Thanks to the input of all of our team members, including our bike mechanics, my content delivered results.”

5. End with a strong closing paragraph and sign off gracefully

Your closing paragraph is your final chance to hammer home your enthusiasm about the role and your unique ability to fill it. Reiterate the main points you explained in the body paragraphs and remind the reader of what you bring to the table.

You can also use the end of your letter to relay other important details, like whether you’re willing to relocate for the job.

When choosing a sign-off, opt for a phrase that sounds professional and genuine. Reliable options include “Sincerely” and “Kind regards.”

Here’s a strong closing statement for you to consider:

“I believe my enthusiasm, skills, and work experience as a PR professional will serve Bits n’ Bikes very well. I would love to meet to further discuss my value-add as your next Director of Public Relations. Thank you for your consideration. I hope we speak soon.

man-reading-carefully-how-to-write-a-cover-letter

Tips to write a great cover letter that compliments your resume

When writing your own letter, try not to copy the example excerpts word-for-word. Instead, use this cover letter structure as a baseline to organize your ideas. Then, as you’re writing, use these extra cover letter tips to add your personal touch:

  • Keep your cover letter different from your resume : Your cover letter should not duplicate the information on your resume. Instead, it should provide context and explanations for key points in your resume, emphasizing how your qualifications match the specific job you're applying for.
  • Customize your cover letter . Tailor your cover letter for each job application. Address the specific needs of the company and the job posting, demonstrating that you've done your homework and understand their requirements.
  • Show enthusiasm and fit . Express your enthusiasm for the company and position in the cover letter. Explain why you are interested in working for this company and how your values, goals, and skills align with their mission and culture.
  • Use keywords . Incorporate keywords from the job description and industry terms in your cover letter. This can help your application pass through applicant tracking systems (ATS) and demonstrate that you're well-versed in the field.
  • Keep it concise . Your cover letter should be succinct and to the point, typically no more than one page. Focus on the most compelling qualifications and experiences that directly support your application.
  • Be professional . Maintain a professional tone and structure in your cover letter. Proofread it carefully to ensure there are no errors.
  • Address any gaps or concerns . If there are gaps or concerns in your resume, such as employment gaps or a change in career direction, briefly address them in your cover letter. Explain any relevant circumstances and how they have shaped your qualifications and determination.
  • Provide a call to action . Conclude your cover letter with a call to action, inviting the employer to contact you for further discussion. Mention that you've attached your resume for their reference.
  • Follow the correct format . Use a standard cover letter format like the one above, including your contact information, a formal salutation, introductory and closing paragraphs, and your signature. Ensure that it complements your resume without redundancy.
  • Pick the right voice and tone . Try to write like yourself, but adapt to the tone and voice of the company. Look at the job listing, company website, and social media posts. Do they sound fun and quirky, stoic and professional, or somewhere in-between? This guides your writing style.
  • Tell your story . You’re an individual with unique expertise, motivators, and years of experience. Tie the pieces together with a great story. Introduce how you arrived at this point in your career, where you hope to go , and how this prospective company fits in your journey. You can also explain any career changes in your resume.
  • Show, don’t tell . Anyone can say they’re a problem solver. Why should a recruiter take their word for it if they don’t back it up with examples? Instead of naming your skills, show them in action. Describe situations where you rose to the task, and quantify your success when you can.
  • Be honest . Avoid highlighting skills you don’t have. This will backfire if they ask you about them in an interview. Instead, shift focus to the ways in which you stand out.
  • Avoid clichés and bullet points . These are signs of lazy writing. Do your best to be original from the first paragraph to the final one. This highlights your individuality and demonstrates the care you put into the letter.
  • Proofread . Always spellcheck your cover letter. Look for typos, grammatical errors, and proper flow. We suggest reading it out loud. If it sounds natural rolling off the tongue, it will read naturally as well.

woman-writing-on-her-notebook-how-to-write-a-cover-letter

Common cover letter writing FAQs

How long should a cover letter be.

A cover letter should generally be concise and to the point. It is recommended to keep it to one page or less, focusing on the most relevant information that highlights your qualifications and fits the job requirements.

Should I include personal information in a cover letter?

While it's important to introduce yourself and provide your contact information, avoid including personal details such as your age, marital status, or unrelated hobbies. Instead, focus on presenting your professional qualifications and aligning them with the job requirements.

Can I use the same cover letter for multiple job applications?

While it may be tempting to reuse a cover letter, it is best to tailor each cover letter to the specific job you are applying for. This allows you to highlight why you are a good fit for that particular role and show genuine interest in the company.

Do I need to address my cover letter to a specific person?

Whenever possible, it is advisable to address your cover letter to a specific person, such as the hiring manager or recruiter. If the job posting does not provide this information, try to research and find the appropriate contact. If all else fails, you can use a generic salutation such as "Dear Hiring Manager."

Should I include references in my cover letter?

It is generally not necessary to include references in your cover letter. Save this information for when the employer explicitly requests it. Instead, focus on showcasing your qualifications and achievements that make you a strong candidate for the position.

It’s time to start writing your stand-out cover letter

The hardest part of writing is getting started. 

Hopefully, our tips gave you some jumping-off points and confidence . But if you’re really stuck, looking at cover letter examples and resume templates will help you decide where to get started. 

There are numerous sample cover letters available online. Just remember that you’re a unique, well-rounded person, and your cover letter should reflect that. Using our structure, you can tell your story while highlighting your passion for the role. 

Doing your research, including strong examples of your skills, and being courteous is how to write a strong cover letter. Take a breath , flex your fingers, and get typing. Before you know it, your job search will lead to a job interview.

If you want more personalized guidance, a specialized career coach can help review, edit, and guide you through creating a great cover letter that sticks.

Ace your job search

Explore effective job search techniques, interview strategies, and ways to overcome job-related challenges. Our coaches specialize in helping you land your dream job.

Elizabeth Perry, ACC

Elizabeth Perry is a Coach Community Manager at BetterUp. She uses strategic engagement strategies to cultivate a learning community across a global network of Coaches through in-person and virtual experiences, technology-enabled platforms, and strategic coaching industry partnerships. With over 3 years of coaching experience and a certification in transformative leadership and life coaching from Sofia University, Elizabeth leverages transpersonal psychology expertise to help coaches and clients gain awareness of their behavioral and thought patterns, discover their purpose and passions, and elevate their potential. She is a lifelong student of psychology, personal growth, and human potential as well as an ICF-certified ACC transpersonal life and leadership Coach.

3 cover letter examples to help you catch a hiring manager’s attention

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Frequently Asked Questions

Our AI Resume Reviewer complements human expertise rather than replacing it. It excels at quickly  identifying technical errors, inconsistencies, and potential areas for improvement in language and organization. 

Pairing this AI feedback with your knowledge of your skills and a final revision by yourself (or a human editor) results in the most powerful resume.

While the AI Reviewer will improve your resume's quality and fit for the job target, it doesn't guarantee an interview.

However, a carefully reviewed, polished resume  increases your chances of standing out from the competition.  Think of it as maximizing your candidacy's potential.

Yes! Whether you're a recent graduate or changing careers, the AI Reviewer pinpoints ways to frame your existing skills and achievements powerfully.

The feedback will ensure your resume is clear, impactful, and effectively shows your value even with limited experience.

While our current tool is optimized for individual resume assessments, you absolutely can! Review each resume one at a time, focusing on the distinct feedback and using the insights to craft the strongest version of each potential application.

Better Resume. Faster Search. More Offers.

COMMENTS

  1. Suggesting Reviewers to Improve Your Manuscript

    The cover letter is done, and you have uploaded your coauthors' names, affiliations, ... However, making good suggestions for reviewers is important for getting meaningful feedback for your work, which is a major part of the scientific process. This Viewpoint provides a few tips for suggesting reviewers that will help you get constructive ...

  2. How to Find and Suggest Peer Reviewers

    Scientific journals often let you suggest potential peer reviewers for your manuscript. This is usually done in the cover letter, though some journals may also have a place to input them online. Suggesting reviewers has many benefits, and some journals even require it. On reasonable grounds, you can also request to exclude individual reviewers ...

  3. PDF Response to Reviewers [Cover Letter]

    Response to Reviewers [Cover Letter] Dear Editor, ... Minor suggestions: [Comment 1] In Table 1, to use PDF & PSS, or probability density functions & Perkins ... Response: The reviewer missed a piece of important information - the scan angle of the MODIS satellite is ± 55°. At the end of a scan line, the scanning angle being 55° means that

  4. PDF Sample Response to Reviewers

    Reviewer 1. There are numerous strengths to this study, including its diverse sample and well-informed hypotheses. Author response: Thank you! 1. Comment from Reviewer 1 noting a mistake or oversight in the manuscript. Author response: Thank you for pointing this out. The reviewer is correct, and we have [explain the change made].

  5. Writing a Cover Letter and Response to Reviewers

    Use a professional tone (i.e., use polite wording throughout the cover letter and response to reviewers, including when making your case for choosing not to follow a reviewer's suggestion). Make sure you have made any changes both within the manuscript AND described them within your response. Make all changes and resubmit your manuscript ...

  6. How to Write an Effective Cover Letter for Journal Submission

    When closing a cover letter for journal submission, it's important to maintain a professional and courteous tone. A common closing salutation is "Sincerely," followed by your name. However, some alternatives that are also appropriate include "Best regards," "Thank you for your time and consideration," or "Respectfully.".

  7. Suggesting reviewers

    Suggesting reviewers; Writing a cover letter; Video abstracts; Video: How to submit your article; Suggesting reviewers. When submitting your article you may be asked to suggest 2-3 potential peer reviewers. The editors will not necessarily invite your suggested reviewers but these suggestions can help speed up the peer review process.

  8. Get a Cover Letter Critique in Three Easy Steps

    Follow these three steps when seeking a cover letter critique: Step 1: Find a Cover Letter Reviewer. Sally McIntosh, nationally certified resume writer and owner of Advantage Resumes, suggests finding a certified resume writer who has been in business a few years to review your cover letter. She recommends searching professional association Web ...

  9. (PDF) Writing a Response to Reviewers' Comments and Cover Letter

    example of cover letter that can go with y our resp onse to reviewers' comments is pro vided. The specimen/template is made up of a set of parts, each of which is presented and described in a ...

  10. How to Suggest Reviewers for Your Paper

    When you suggest peer reviewers for your work, you should stay unbiased. As scholars have noted, "An author-suggested peer reviewer choice might also tempt authors to seek experts who might be more receptive or sympathetic to the authors' message or results, and thus favor the outcome of that paper.". But you should try not to fall into ...

  11. Tips for Responding to Reviewers' Comments-from an Editor's or Reviewer

    1. Cover letter/Letter to the editor. Letter to the editor summarizing the changes and, if necessary, defending the manuscript, should be written towards the end, right before the resubmission. 3 Instead letters to each of the reviewers, or a combined point-by-point response to address all reviewers' comments should be the first thing to prepare.

  12. Writing a Successful Journal Cover Letter (Free Templates)

    7 Journal submission tips and hacks from the experts. 7.1 Be personal, use the editor's name. 7.2 Tell them what you want to publish. 7.3 Summarize the highlights of your work. 7.4 Sell yourself. 7.5 Don't forget your "must have" statements. 8 See it in action: Edanz video on writing cover letters. 9 Get a cover letter template.

  13. How to suggest reviewers for a journal?

    1. I know coming across at least one journal that used suggested reviewers as a benchmark of you knowing your field. They explicitly stated that, if they think your suggested reviewers are not the best possible experts to review your paper, it will be rejected without review. - ThomasH. Jun 11, 2013 at 17:25.

  14. Crafting Effective Response Letters to Peer Reviewers and Editors: A

    A well-structured response letter is easier for reviewers and editors to navigate and understand. Consider the following structure for your response letter: ... Address each comment individually: Respond to each comment or suggestion made by the reviewers and editors. Number or list the comments for clarity, and address them in the order they ...

  15. Revising and responding

    This is in addition to describing the changes in your point by point cover letter. Return the revised manuscript and response letter within the time period allotted by the editor. The following is an example as to how to respond to a reviewer comment: Reviewer comment: "In your analysis of the data you have chosen to use a somewhat obscure ...

  16. Composition of Cover Letters and Effective Suggestions for Potential

    Composition of Cover Letters and Effective Suggestions for Potential Reviewers. 2014 Volume 47 Issue 11 Pages 740-741. Preparing your manuscript for submission is a large task; however, creating a good cover letter is an equally important one. Although online submission has become extremely common, a cover letter is nevertheless required.

  17. Expert Tips for Responding to Reviewers' Comments on Your Research Paper

    Keep in mind that the reviewers' suggestions are meant to enhance the calibre of your work, and that an open debate can result in a stronger finished paper. ... the reviewers' comments, the cover letter, and any supplementary files like figures or tables. It's also crucial to make sure the work is formatted correctly and adheres to the ...

  18. Content Reviewer Cover Letter Examples & Writing Tips

    Content Reviewer Cover Letter Example 3. I am writing to express my interest in the position of content reviewer that you have available. I believe that my experience and skills make me a perfect candidate for this job. I have been working as a content reviewer for the past two years, and I have gained extensive experience in this field.

  19. PDF A template for responding to peer reviewer comments

    Template 1 - General template. Dear Dr./ Mr./Ms. [Editor's Name], Thank you for giving me the opportunity to submit a revised draft of my manuscript titled. [mention the manuscript's title] to [include the name of the journal, italicized]. I/We [use the relevant pronoun "I" or "We" here and wherever applicable throughout] appreciate ...

  20. How can I suggest or oppose reviewers for my submission?

    Start submitting your manuscript and select an article type. If the journal has enabled the Suggest and/or Oppose reviewer option, it will be under the "Review Preferences" submission step. Under Suggest Reviewers, Click 'Add Suggested Reviewer' to open an overlay to enter the details. Fill in the information for your suggested reviewer.

  21. How to Write a Great Cover Letter in 2024 (+ Examples)

    1. Personalization. Address the hiring manager or recruiter by name whenever possible. If the job posting doesn't include a name, research to find out who will be reviewing applications. Personalizing your cover letter shows that you've taken the time to tailor your application to the specific company and role. 2.

  22. Resume Reviewer

    Get Your Tailored Resume Review. Initiate the review process and receive in-depth, data-driven analysis. The Resume Reviewer will identify potential errors, weaknesses in language or structure, and opportunities for improvement based on both general best practices and the specific job description. 4.

  23. Optimize Your Cover Letter and Get Noticed by Employers

    How to optimize your cover letter. Upload your cover letter. From your Jobscan dashboard, upload your cover letter file along with your resume into the scanner. Paste in the text from the job listing. Paste the text of the job listing into the scanner. Optimize your cover letter. The Match Report will give you tailored advice on which skills or ...

  24. UnitedHealth Group Updates on Change Healthcare Cyberattack

    UnitedHealth Group (NYSE: UNH) is announcing support for people who may be concerned about their personal data potentially being impacted based on preliminary findings from the ongoing investigation and review of the data involved in the malicious criminal cyberattack on Change Healthcare.

  25. Canada's dental care plan begins today. Here's what you need to know

    Canada's national dental care plan begins covering 1.9 million seniors today — the first phase of a massive public oral health-care insurance program that eventually will cover one quarter of ...