How to determine whether a journal is worth submitting an article to?

To determine whether a journal merits article submission, evaluate its scope alignment, quality metrics, peer review process, and ethical standing. This assessment is highly feasible through systematic investigation. Firstly, verify the journal's scope explicitly includes your research topic by examining recent publications and author guidelines. Assess its reputation using established metrics like Journal Impact Factor (JIF) or CiteScore, but consider disciplinary norms and the expertise of its editorial board. Investigate the rigor of the peer review process, publication timelines, and open access costs if applicable. Ensure the journal is indexed in major relevant databases such as Scopus, Web of Science, or PubMed, and adheres to recognized publishing ethics standards, such as those outlined by COPE. Begin by critically reviewing the journal's aims and scope for relevance. Identify its ranking within your field using trusted sources and scrutinize its editorial board's credibility. Investigate peer review duration, acceptance rates, and Article Processing Charges (APCs). Confirm its indexing status and check for any history of malpractice or predatory practices through resources like Think Check Submit. Finally, solicit feedback from mentors or colleagues. This systematic evaluation maximizes chances of appropriate dissemination and impact.