Editorial Desk Decision
nounPronunciation: /ɛˈdɪtɔːriəl dɛsk dɪˈsɪʒən/
The editorial judgment made at the manuscript intake stage determining whether a submission warrants full peer review or should be desk rejected based on scope, quality, and compliance with journal guidelines. This decision is made by the editor or editorial team without external reviewer involvement.
Plain English
The editor's quick decision whether to send a manuscript to peer review or reject it immediately based on initial assessment.
Etymology & History
Usage
"The editorial desk decision resulted in desk rejection due to the manuscript's misalignment with the journal's scope."
Style guide notes: Distinguish between editorial desk decisions and peer-review-based rejections when discussing manuscript outcomes in formal contexts.
Also known as
Contrasted with
Related Terms
Frequently Asked Questions
What factors influence an editorial desk decision?
Manuscript quality, journal scope alignment, originality, methodology soundness, and compliance with submission guidelines.
Can authors appeal an editorial desk decision?
Many journals allow appeals with justification, though successful reversals of desk rejections are uncommon.
Why Test Candidates on This?
Evaluates understanding of editorial workflows, quality gatekeeping mechanisms, and the rapid assessment phase of manuscript handling.
Required skill level: Senior