Experience always counts irrespective of the field we belong to. However, experience comes with learning every new scholar at some point has to start handling the review process to proceed in his scientific endeavor.
- Reading the reviews patiently and respond
The author is a master in his narrow topic. However, the reviewer has the broader experience and expertise therefore you should read in-depth reviews. If there are multiple reviewers then the comments of each reviewer should be balanced out. Also, the author should have a rational approach to understand whether the article is up to the mark to get published.
Emotionally you may not like the comments but nevertheless, you should not underestimate and try to understand the perspective of the reviewer.
Sometimes you’re and reviewer’s opinion may not match the article but don’t get upset, it’s a part of the publication journey.
- Celebrate the comments
Comments by reviewers are stepping stones towards successful publication. Sometimes we get a mail asking us to address the reviews and submit them back. This is an achievement as you have not been disqualified or have not faced desktop rejection. If you are getting comments means there is a scope that the article can be a part of the said journal.
- Compare the article and comments and then respond
The comments of reviewers can be minor ones that can be easily accommodated. Fix them up and write in the letter to the editor. However, there are some comments that you agree with the reviewer but shall take substantive time to execute. Please mention the changes in the manuscript (rewriting or additional content was added) that have been made. Minor stuff which you don’t agree with should also be part of the letter to the editor. Author those who disagree with the majority of reviewers’ comments should make a clear and authentic argument.
Write back to the reviewer after you have revised the paper and addressed all the comments. Write clearly the changes you have made to address the reviews also highlight the positive comment of the author.
- Resubmission
The ball is now in the court of the editor as they can compare the reviewed article with the original article relative to your response letter. The editor can also give the article to a new editor to check his opinion. We cannot control the review process except that we can give our best to address the reviews in a scientific, knowledgeable, and professional manner.