How to choose a journal and write a cover letter

What is it about?

This article is published as part of the "How to write a scientific paper" special issue of the Saudi Journal of Anaesthesia. It provides details on the factors involved in optimal journal selection, giving insights into why particular criteria are important, how to assess and balance them when making decisions, and ideal methods to approach this task. It also provides notes on supporting submissions with an effective cover letter. The supplementary materials include a spreadsheet for tracking information about potential titles of interest and submission details to make it easy for authors to build a list of suitable journals in their field and record submission progress.

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Photo by kazuend on Unsplash

Photo by kazuend on Unsplash

Why is it important?

There are an increasingly complex range of factors to consider when choosing a journal, and it can be a confusing, daunting task. Often submissions end in disappointment when a paper is rejected quickly for reasons that may not be clear to the author, taking time from author and editor. This article aims to improve the efficiency of the submission process and help authors to find the perfect venue for their work, to the advantage of author, editor and reader.

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