What do reviewers do, and why?

Reviewers evaluate article submissions to journals, based on the requirements of that journal, predefined criteria, and quality, completeness and accuracy of the research presented.

They provide feedback on the article and the research, suggest improvements and make a recommendation to the editor about whether to accept, reject or request changes to the article.

Reviewing is a time-intensive process – writing a review report can be almost as much work as writing a manuscript! – but it is very worthwhile for the reviewer as well as for the community. Reviewers:

Ensure the rigorous standards of the scientific process by taking part in the peer-review system.

Uphold the integrity of the journal by identifying invalid research, and helping to maintain the quality of the journal.

Fulfill a sense of obligation to the community and their own area of research.

Establish relationships with reputable colleagues and their affiliated journals, and increase their opportunities to join an Editorial Board.

Reciprocate professional courtesy, as authors and reviewers are often interchangeable roles – as reviewer, researchers ‘repay’ the same courtesy they receive as authors