Choosing a journal for publication is a task that deserves no less attention than preparing the paper itself. A mistake at this stage leads to financial losses, delays to a thesis defence and reputational risks for the scholar. Below are the sequential steps that help reduce the likelihood of ending up with a disreputable publisher.
Why does an algorithm for choosing a scientific journal matter?
Scholars often come across publications that outwardly resemble respectable scientific journals but do not carry out proper peer review. A paper published in such a journal will not be accepted by a dissertation council, and the money and time invested end up wasted. A systematic approach to choosing a publisher makes it possible to rule out these risks in advance.
Key criteria for selecting a journal for publication
The subject of the paper should match the journal’s scope – this increases the chances of a favourable decision from the editorial board and simplifies peer review. The peer-review model (single-blind, double-blind or open review), the average manuscript turnaround time and the transparency of publication fees also matter.
Journals with a clearly described editorial policy and accessible information about the composition of the editorial board tend to offer a more predictable publication process.
How to check a journal’s indexing in Scopus and Web of Science
A note on indexing displayed on the journal’s own website is not sufficient proof: a journal may have been removed from a database while still showing an outdated status. Checking Scopus can be done through the “Sources” section on the Scopus platform or Scopus Preview – by journal title or ISSN. Similar information, including the SJR quartile, is available on Scimago Journal & Country Rank. For Web of Science, the Master Journal List allows an equivalent search by ISSN. A “coverage discontinued” note in Scopus search results means the journal has lost its indexing.
Publication requirements for scholars in Kyrgyzstan
For candidates for an academic degree in the Kyrgyz Republic, a publication must comply with the list maintained by the National Attestation Commission under the President of the Kyrgyz Republic (NAC KR), formerly known as the Higher Attestation Commission (HAC). The main findings of a candidate’s thesis are, as a rule, presented in at least five publications, including one paper in a journal indexed by Scopus or Web of Science. A doctoral thesis submitted in the form of a scientific report requires considerably more publications in international databases. Additional conditions apply to certain specialisms, so before submitting a manuscript it is worth checking the current NAC KR list and confirming the requirements of the specific dissertation council.
Warning signs of a predatory journal
Predatory publishers disguise themselves as respectable scientific journals, yet they tend to share a set of recognisable traits:
- no proper peer review, or peer review that is purely nominal
- hidden publication fees that are only mentioned once a paper has been accepted
- unnaturally fast manuscript review – within a matter of days
- no verifiable indexing in Scopus, Web of Science or DOAJ despite claims to the contrary
- an implausibly broad range of disciplines with no clear specialism
- aggressive mass emails inviting submissions or offering a seat on the editorial board
Spotting several of these signs is a strong reason to walk away from the publisher.
A practical algorithm for choosing a journal
The following sequence of steps helps to systematise the process of selecting a publisher:
- Establish that the journal’s subject area matches the paper’s content and the research profile.
- Check the journal’s indexing in Scopus, Web of Science or RSCI through official sources.
- Review the journal’s publication history over recent issues and the quality of its material.
- Cross-check the journal against the current NAC KR list if the paper is needed for a thesis defence.
- Confirm the peer-review model, review timelines and payment terms before submitting.
- Contact the editorial office directly if in doubt, and request supporting documents on indexing.
A sound choice of journal is the result of consistent verification, not a snap decision. Scholars should set aside time to assess indexing, reputation and the requirements of the relevant dissertation council well before the manuscript is finished.
Planning to publish an article and want to be sure the journal has been chosen correctly and without risk? The specialists at Scientific Publications will check the journal’s indexing, assess its compliance with NAC KR requirements and help select a journal that matches the goals of your publication. To receive a free consultation, fill in the form below, and our manager will get in touch with you shortly. Onwards to new scientific achievements!
