How to determine the quality and strictness of a journal's review process?

To determine a journal's review quality and rigor, examine quantifiable metrics alongside qualitative indicators such as its rejection rate, editorial board expertise, average time to decision, and reported adherence to peer review standards. Several factors indicate rigor: Firstly, review timeframes should be substantial enough for thorough evaluation. Secondly, journals explicitly stating detailed review guidelines or utilizing recognized peer review models often signify systematic processes. Thirdly, the presence of reputable, active academics on the editorial board enhances oversight credibility. High rejection rates imply selectivity and thorough scrutiny. Finally, transparent disclosure of review protocols signals commitment to standards. Note that ideal metrics differ across disciplines. For application, researchers assess these elements to identify reputable journals for submission, anticipate feedback depth, and ensure research credibility. Steps include: checking the journal's 'Aims & Scope' and 'Instructions for Authors' for explicit review policies; consulting databases like Scimago Journal Rank for rejection rates; examining editorial board composition; reading published reviewer acknowledgments; and consulting peers familiar with the journal's submission experience. This evaluation informs strategic manuscript placement.