Tips for Submitting a Revised Manuscript
 

Since beginning my journey as a reviewer for Ocean Engineering in 2015, I've had the opportunity to review over a hundred journal papers in my field. Through this experience, I've noticed that the second review can often present challenges, particularly due to inadequately prepared response letters (RLs). While Reviewer #2 might have a reputation for being difficult :), it's important to remember that their feedback is usually rooted in a desire to improve the manuscript.
 

A well-crafted and informative RL can significantly influence the review process, making it quicker and more equitable. From a reviewer's perspective, here are some tips for preparing an effective response letter:
 

1. Begin with Acknowledgement: Start your RL by thanking the editor and reviewers for their time and feedback, acknowledging the role their comments have played in enhancing your manuscript's quality, regardless of whether you agree with all their points. This is of course optional and does not influence the review process.

2. Incorporate Reviewers' Comments: Directly include the reviewers' comments in your RL. Submitting a revised manuscript without this can lead to confusion and slows down the review process, as the reviewer has to refer back to the original comments.

3. Simplify and Style Your RL: While it's important to style your RL for clarity, keep it simple. Use horizontal lines, boxes, or different text colors (preferably dark blue over red) to distinguish between comments and your responses.

4. Detail Text Modifications: When referencing modifications, specify the exact location in the manuscript (page and line number) rather than stating "text was modified." This precision aids the reviewer in evaluating the changes efficiently.

5. Highlight Modifications in the Manuscript: If required by the journal, submit a version of your manuscript that visually indicates the changes (e.g., through highlighting or a different text color). Nonetheless, always specify the location of these modifications as per tip #4.

6. Quote Modified Text in Your RL: For each response, consider including the specific text that has been modified, using quotation marks for clarity. This approach allows reviewers to quickly see the changes in RL without needing to refer back to the manuscript.

7. Address Disagreements Tactfully: If you find yourself disagreeing with a reviewer, strive to address their concerns in a respectful and convincing manner without resorting to confrontation. Aim to find a middle ground that considers both your perspectives and the reviewer's.

8. Offer Alternatives: When consensus cannot be reached, suggest an alternative solution that might satisfy both parties.

9. Good Luck!

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By: B Kamranzad