Guidelines for Reviewers

Peer reviewers are the heart of JHTS. These guidelines follow the COPE Ethical Guidelines for Peer Reviewers.

Before you accept

• Accept only if the manuscript is within your expertise and you can return the report by the due date shown in the invitation.
• Decline, and tell the editors, if you have a conflict of interest: for example, you think you know who the authors are, you work closely with them, or you are writing on the same question.
• If you need more time, ask the editors before the due date.

Confidentiality

Treat the manuscript as confidential. Do not share it, discuss it with others or use its ideas or data before publication. Do not try to identify the authors. Do not upload the manuscript, or any part of it, to generative AI tools (see the policy on generative AI).

Writing the report

1. Summary. In a few sentences, say what the manuscript argues and what it contributes.
2. Strengths. What does the work do well?
3. Major points. Problems with the argument, method, evidence or use of the literature that must be addressed.
4. Minor points. Clarity, structure, referencing (APA 7th or MLA 9th) and language.
5. Recommendation. Accept, minor revisions, major revisions or reject.

Be specific, constructive and courteous: write as you would wish to be reviewed. Comments to the authors are shared with them anonymously; confidential comments are seen by the editors only.

Timing and recognition

Reviews are due within the period stated in the invitation [TO CONFIRM]. You will receive reminders before and after the due date. Recognition for reviewers [TO CONFIRM].