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Basic Technical IVT Commonly tested

Peer review turnaround time

noun phrase

Pronunciation: /pɪr rɪˈvjuː ˈtɝːn.əˌraʊnd ˈtaɪm/

The average time period between manuscript submission and completion of the peer review process, including reviewer selection, evaluation, and editorial decision communication. This metric indicates journal efficiency and impacts author experience and publication timelines.

Plain English

The average number of days or months it takes a journal to complete the review process for a submitted paper.

Etymology & History

Origin languageEnglish
Rootpeer (equal) + review (examination) + turnaround (completion cycle) + time (duration)
First recorded use2000s
Usage frequencyCommon

Usage

"The journal improved its peer review turnaround time to six weeks by recruiting more active reviewers."

Style guide notes: Specify whether turnaround time refers to initial decision or final publication; use consistent time units.

Also known as

review timeline decision time

Related Terms

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a typical peer review turnaround time?

Most journals aim for 4-12 weeks, though this varies significantly by discipline and journal.

Why does turnaround time vary between journals?

Factors include field conventions, reviewer availability, manuscript complexity, and editorial workload.

Why Test Candidates on This?

Important for evaluating journal performance, predicting publication outcomes, and understanding editorial workflow management.

Required skill level: Mid

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