Guidelines for Reviewer

Introduction

Thank you for agreeing to review a manuscript for the Journal of Tropical Crop Science and Technology (JT-CST). Your expertise is invaluable in maintaining the quality and integrity of our publication. Please follow these guidelines to ensure a thorough, objective, and fair review process.

REVIEW PROCESS

  1. Confidentiality: Treat all manuscripts as confidential. Do not share, discuss, or disclose any information about the manuscript with others except as authorized by the editor.
  2. Conflict of Interest: Declare any conflicts of interest that may affect your ability to review the manuscript objectively. If you have a conflict, such as a competitive, collaborative, or other relationship with the authors, inform the editor and recuse yourself from the review process.
  3. Timeliness: Complete your review within the timeframe provided by the editor. If you are unable to meet the deadline, notify the editor as soon as possible so alternative arrangements can be made.

REVIEWING THE MANUSCRIPT

  1. Scope and Relevance: Assess whether the manuscript falls within the scope of JT-CST and its relevance to the field of tropical crop science and technology.
  2. Originality and Novelty: Evaluate the originality and novelty of the research. Ensure that the work contributes new knowledge or insights to the field.
  3. Methodology: Check the validity and appropriateness of the research methods. Ensure that the methods are clearly described and suitable for the research objectives.
  4. Results and Analysis: Review the accuracy and significance of the results. Ensure that the data is analyzed correctly and that conclusions are supported by the data.
  5. Clarity and Structure: Assess the clarity, coherence, and organization of the manuscript. The writing should be clear, concise, and logically structured.
  6. References: Verify that the manuscript cites relevant and up-to-date literature. Ensure that all references are appropriately cited and that any significant works are included.

PROVIDING FEEDBACK

  1. Constructive Criticism: Provide constructive feedback that helps the authors improve their manuscript. Highlight both strengths and weaknesses, and offer specific suggestions for improvement.
  2. Objective Assessment: Maintain objectivity and avoid personal bias. Base your comments and recommendations on the scientific content of the manuscript.
  3. Recommendations: Based on your review, recommend one of the following actions
  4. Accept: The manuscript is suitable for publication with no or minor revisions.
  5. Revise: The manuscript requires revisions before it can be considered for publication. Specify the changes needed.
  6. Reject: The manuscript is not suitable for publication in its current form. Provide clear reasons for the rejection.

ETHICAL CONSIDERATIONS

  1. Plagiarism and Ethical Issues: Be vigilant for signs of plagiarism or ethical misconduct. Report any concerns about unethical practices, such as duplicate publication or manipulation of data, to the editor.
  2. Data and Results: Ensure that the data and results presented in the manuscript are accurate and honest. If you suspect data fabrication or falsification, inform the editor immediately.

AFTER THE REVIEW

  1. Confidentiality: Continue to treat the manuscript and your review comments as confidential. Do not use any unpublished material from the manuscript for your research.
  2. Feedback to the Editor: Provide a clear and comprehensive summary of your review for the editor. Your feedback will be used to make the final decision regarding the manuscript.

FINAL NOTE

Your role as a reviewer is crucial to the scholarly process. We appreciate your time and expertise in helping us maintain the quality of the Journal of Tropical Crop Science and Technology. If you have any questions or concerns about the review process, please contact the editor.

Thank you for your valuable contribution.