Journal Publishing Guide

1. Introduction

Publishing in reputable journals is essential for disseminating quality research, gaining academic recognition, and contributing to the global knowledge base. This guide provides insights on where to publish, how to identify non-predatory journals, and how to avoid predatory publishers.

2. Where to Publish in Non-Predatory Journals

To ensure your research is published in a credible and widely recognized journal, consider the following sources:

1. University Library & Research Office: Many universities maintain lists of recommended and credible journals.
2. Indexing ServicesThe following indexing sites assess journals for inclusion based on rigorous editorial process and best practices in publishing.

• All Journals listed in the Web of Science core collection –https://mjl.clarivate.com/home
• All Journals listed in the National Library of Medicine catalogue (MEDLINE, PubMed and other NCBI databases) – https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/nlmcatalog/
• All Journals listed in Scopus –https://www.scopus.com/sources
• All Journals listed in EBSCO – https://www.ebsco.com/title-lists
• All Journals listed in Directory of Open Access Journals: https://doaj.org/
• All Journals listed in Scimago: A publicly available database that indexes journals in Scopus. It provides country and journal ranks – https://www.scimagojr.com/
• AJOL: The platform indexes African-published scholarly journals. The journals are assessed against a set of best practices in publishing and the rating status indicated against each journal. Clicking on the status provides more detailed information on the rating. – https://www.ajol.info/index.php/ajol

1. Publisher Websites: Ensure the journal is published by well-known academic publishers such as:
   • Elsevier
   • Springer
   • Wiley
   • Taylor & Francis
   • Oxford University Press
   • Cambridge University Press
2. Journal Ranking Metrics: Use tools like Journal Impact Factor (JIF), CiteScore, and H-index to assess the journal’s reputation.
3. Professional Associations: Many academic societies and professional bodies publish credible journals related to their field.
4. How to Identify Predatory Journals

Predatory journals exploit researchers by charging high fees without providing proper editorial and peer-review services. Here are signs to watch out for:

• Lack of Indexing: Not listed in Scopus, Web of Science, or other reputable indexing services.
• Unrealistic Peer Review Process: Promises rapid publication (e.g., within a few days) without rigorous peer review.
• Excessive or Hidden Fees: High article processing charges (APCs) without transparency.
• Poorly Designed Websites: Frequent grammatical errors, lack of contact details, and missing journal policies.
• Fake Metrics: Use of misleading impact factors or claims of indexing in non-existent databases.
• Spam Emails: Unsolicited invitations to submit articles or join editorial boards.
• Unverifiable Editorial Board: No credible experts listed, or fake affiliations are used.

4. Tools to Check Journal Legitimacy

Use the following tools to verify journal authenticity:

• Think. Check. Submit. (https://thinkchecksubmit.org/)
• Beall’s List (Archived) – A list of potential predatory journals
• DOAJ (https://doaj.org/) – For legitimate open-access journals
• SCImago Journal Rank (https://www.scimagojr.com/) – For journal rankings
• Journal Citation Reports (https://jcr.clarivate.com/) – To check journal impact factors

5. Best Practices for Journal Selection

• Read journal aims and scope to ensure alignment with your research.
• Verify the journal’s peer-review process.
• Check previous issues and authors for credibility.
• Confirm journal policies on ethics, copyright, and open access.
• Consult senior researchers, mentors, or librarians for guidance.

6. Conclusion

Publishing in a reputable journal enhances the credibility and impact of your research. Always verify the authenticity of a journal before submission and avoid predatory publishers that compromise academic integrity. Use indexing databases and journal assessment tools to make informed publishing decisions.

For further assistance, consult your institution’s research office or library.