1. Initial Editorial Review

At this initial stage, the editorial team examines the submitted manuscript to ensure it aligns with the journal’s scope and follows its formatting and submission guidelines. During this process, the editor communicates with the author(s) to determine whether the manuscript proceeds to peer review or is declined.

Estimated Time: approximately 1–2 weeks.

2. External Double-Blind Review

Manuscripts that pass the preliminary screening are assigned to at least two or three independent reviewers. This evaluation is carried out using a double-blind approach, keeping both author and reviewer identities confidential to maintain impartiality.

Estimated Time: approximately 4–8 weeks.

3. Review Criteria

Throughout the review, the manuscript is assessed on several factors, including originality, objectivity, methodology, scientific contribution, strength of conclusions, and adequacy of references.

Estimated Time: concurrent with the double-blind evaluation (around 4–8 weeks).

4. Reviewer Feedback and Recommendations

Reviewers provide constructive comments, suggest improvements, and recommend whether the article should be accepted, revised, or rejected.

Estimated Time: included within the double-blind review period.

5. Editorial Decision Making

After receiving reviewers’ reports, the editor weighs the feedback and recommendations to reach a decision regarding acceptance, revision, or rejection of the manuscript.

Estimated Time: about 1–2 weeks after all reviews are received.

6. Final Decision and Publication

The editor’s final decision may be to accept, request minor or major revisions, or reject the manuscript outright. Accepted papers proceed to copyediting and publication, while rejected ones may be resubmitted after substantial revision and will undergo the full review process again.

Estimated Time: approximately 1 week for the final decision and author notification.