Skip to main content
Basic Technical In the Industry Vocabulary Test Commonly tested

Manuscript Desk Rejection Criteria

noun phrase

Pronunciation: /ˈmænjuskrɪpt dɛsk rɪˈdʒɛkʃən kraɪˈtɪəriə/

A set of predetermined objective standards applied during initial editorial screening to quickly identify and reject manuscripts that do not meet the journal's scope, quality thresholds, or technical requirements without sending them to peer review. These criteria streamline the editorial process and reduce reviewer burden.

Plain English

Specific rules editors use to quickly reject papers that don't fit the journal's standards before peer review.

Etymology & History

Origin languageLatin, Old French, Latin
Rootmanuscriptus (written by hand) + desk (table for writing) + reicere (to throw back) + criterium (standard for judgment)
First recorded use1990s
Usage frequencyCommon

Usage

"The journal updated its manuscript desk rejection criteria to exclude studies lacking statistical power analysis."

Style guide notes: Capitalize as formal journal policy term; specify whether criteria are scope-based, quality-based, or format-based in detailed discussions.

Also known as

initial screening standards desk rejection thresholds

Contrasted with

acceptance without review universal peer review

Related Terms

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of manuscripts meet desk rejection criteria?

Papers outside journal scope, with fundamental methodological flaws, lacking originality, or not meeting formatting requirements.

How do desk rejection criteria benefit the editorial process?

They reduce peer review burden, accelerate decisions for unsuitable manuscripts, and ensure reviewers focus on viable submissions.

Why Test Candidates on This?

Essential for testing editorial decision-making processes and understanding efficiency mechanisms in journal management.

Required skill level: Mid

Editors from these organizations have used our services since 1998

Reuters BBC Oxford University Press Penguin Random House Springer Microsoft Suncor Energy United Nations Fisher Investments IBM The Home Depot KODAK CHEVRON