Manuscript desk rejection
nounPronunciation: /ˈmænjuskrɪpt ˈdɛsk rɪˈdʒɛkʃən/
The editorial decision to reject a submission without sending it for peer review, typically based on scope misalignment, quality concerns, or formatting violations. This occurs at the initial editorial screening stage before external review.
Plain English
When an editor rejects a paper immediately without peer review because it doesn't fit the journal or meet basic standards.
Etymology & History
Usage
"The journal implemented stricter desk rejection criteria to reduce processing time for out-of-scope submissions."
Style guide notes: Hyphenate as 'desk-reject' when used as a verb in technical contexts.
Also known as
Contrasted with
Related Terms
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes manuscript desk rejection?
Submissions are desk rejected for scope misalignment, poor quality, incomplete formatting, or insufficient novelty for the journal.
Can desk-rejected papers be resubmitted?
Yes, authors can revise and resubmit desk-rejected manuscripts after addressing editorial concerns and recommendations.
Why Test Candidates on This?
Critical for understanding initial manuscript processing workflows in academic publishing operations.
Required skill level: Junior