Sometimes, journal editors assign peer reviewers to evaluate submitted manuscripts. Reviewers provide feedback on the research. They help editors make decisions about publication. Occasionally, a review can be unfair, biased, or inaccurate.
This article offers help. We provide sample letters. These are to help you complain about a reviewer. You can adapt these samples. They will help you express your concerns clearly.
We will share different templates. These cover various scenarios. You can easily modify them. This will help you draft your own letter.
Sample Letter To Journal Editor Complain About Reviewer
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Email]
[Your Phone Number]
[Date]
[Editor’s Name]
[Editor’s Title]
[Journal Name]
[Journal Address]
**Subject: Complaint Regarding Reviewer Feedback for Manuscript [Manuscript ID]**
Dear Dr. [Editor’s Last Name],
I am writing to express my concern regarding the reviewer feedback received for our manuscript, “[Manuscript Title],” manuscript ID [Manuscript ID], which we submitted to [Journal Name] on [Date of Submission].
While we appreciate the peer review process, we believe that the comments from Reviewer [Reviewer Number, if known, or “one of the reviewers”] were unprofessional and unconstructive. Specifically, [Clearly and concisely describe the issues. Examples: “the reviewer’s comments were dismissive and lacked specific examples,” or “the reviewer demonstrated a clear bias against our methodology,” or “the reviewer’s suggestions were not relevant to the scope of our study.” Be factual and avoid emotional language.].
We believe that these comments do not provide a fair or helpful assessment of our work. We are confident in the validity of our research and are willing to address constructive criticism. However, we find it difficult to respond to the type of feedback we received.
We respectfully request that you consider our concerns and perhaps seek an additional review from a different expert in the field. We are eager to improve our manuscript and believe a more objective review would be beneficial.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
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How to Write a Letter To Journal Editor Complain About Reviewer
1. Crafting the Subject Line: Precision is Paramount
The subject line is your clarion call. Be specific, yet succinct. Avoid ambiguity.
- Example: “Complaint Regarding Review of Manuscript [Manuscript ID: XXXX]”
- Include the manuscript ID. It expedites the editor’s search.
- Avoid emotionally charged language. Aim for professionalism.
2. The Salutation: Addressing the Editor with Deference
Begin with a respectful salutation. Demonstrate professional courtesy. An editor’s goodwill is invaluable.
- Use “Dear Dr. [Editor’s Last Name],” or “Dear Professor [Editor’s Last Name],”
- If the editor’s title is unknown, “Dear Editor” is acceptable.
- Avoid familiarities unless you have a prior established rapport.
3. The Incipit: Concisely State Your Grievance
The opening paragraph should unequivocally state your reason for writing. Clarity preempts confusion.
- Clearly state you are lodging a complaint about a reviewer’s comments.
- Mention the manuscript title and ID again for reinforcement.
- Example: “I am writing to express my concern regarding the review of our manuscript, ‘[Manuscript Title]’ (ID: XXXX).”
4. Elucidating the Specifics: Substantiating Your Claims
Detail the problematic aspects of the review. Provide concrete examples. Generalities lack persuasive force.
- Focus on factual inaccuracies, demonstrable biases, or breaches of ethical review conduct.
- Quote specific passages from the review. Then, explain why they are unwarranted.
- Refrain from ad hominem attacks. Critique the content, not the reviewer’s character.
- Present counter-arguments, supported by evidence or citations.
5. Articulating the Impact: Highlighting the Consequences
Explain how the flawed review affects your manuscript’s assessment. Demonstrate the ramifications.
- Suggest that the review might lead to an unfair rejection of your work.
- Explain how the reviewer’s misinterpretations could mislead the editor.
- If applicable, mention any potential damage to your reputation as researchers.
6. Proposing a Resolution: Suggesting Remedial Action
Suggest a course of action to rectify the situation. Offer constructive solutions. Passivity is seldom persuasive.
- Suggest a re-review by a different, unbiased reviewer.
- Offer to provide additional information or clarification to address the reviewer’s concerns (if legitimate).
- Politely request that the editor consider your concerns when making a final decision.
7. The Valediction: Concluding with Professionalism
End the letter with a polite and professional closing. Leave a favorable final impression.
- Use “Sincerely,” or “Respectfully yours,” followed by your full name.
- Include your institutional affiliation and contact information.
- Express your gratitude for the editor’s time and consideration.
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Frequently Asked Questions: Complaining About a Reviewer
Submitting a complaint about a reviewer to a journal editor is a serious matter. Understanding the proper procedure and grounds for complaint can ensure your concerns are addressed appropriately.
When is it appropriate to complain about a reviewer?
Complaints are typically warranted when a reviewer exhibits clear bias, demonstrates a lack of expertise, provides factually incorrect information, or engages in unprofessional conduct (e.g., personal attacks or plagiarism).
How should I address the journal editor in my letter?
Maintain a formal and respectful tone. Begin by thanking the editor for their time and consideration. Clearly state the manuscript ID and title, and then concisely explain the specific issues with the review.
What evidence should I include in my complaint?
Provide specific examples from the review to support your claims. Quote the problematic sections and explain why they are biased, inaccurate, or unprofessional. Objective evidence strengthens your case.
What outcome can I expect from submitting a complaint?
The editor may choose to disregard the review, seek an additional review, or provide a response addressing your concerns. The decision ultimately rests with the editor’s judgment and the journal’s policies.
Should I contact the reviewer directly instead of the editor?
No. Contacting the reviewer directly is generally discouraged. All communication should be channeled through the editor to maintain a professional and unbiased process.