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This is an important concern. AI tools are beneficial to both researchers and reviewers in many ways. However, while some reviewers may use AI tools to aid their reading or summarize the manuscript, peer review is still meant to be a careful evaluation of your work. It should only be used as an aid and not as a substitute for human judgement. As an author, focus on presenting your research clearly, and remember that you can reach out to editors if you feel a review did not engage with your work adequately. In addition to the risk of oversimplification or missing out on important details, there are other concerns that include maintaining the confidentiality of your work in an AI world. If you are concerned about the fairness of your review, bring this up politely with the editor.

In 2016, 1.9 million papers were published. By 2022, that number had already jumped to 2.8 million, and it is increasing every year. In such a landscape, it is difficult to make an impact and have your paper stand out. That is where a graphical abstract can help. It can help catch the attention of readers through eye-catching graphics and easy-to-understand text. Graphical abstracts are also helpful for sharing information in interdisciplinary settings or with non-academic audiences because there is less text to be read and our brains graphics can process graphics more easily and quickly. All these factors together ensure that a graphical abstract sets a research paper apart from the rest. Additionally, an increasing number of journals and publishers have made graphical abstracts a mandatory requirement for submission. Publishers have started adopting graphical abstracts for the same reason mentioned above, which is to make it easier for their readers to quickly grasp the essence of the study through an engaging visual.

Yes, incorrect formatting can impact your manuscript’s acceptance.While most journals will not reject solely because of minor formatting errors, significant issues—such as missing sections, improper reference style, incomplete figure legends, or exceeding word limits—can lead to desk rejection before peer review. Even if the paper is sent for review, poor formatting creates a negative first impression, suggests a lack of attention to detail, and may delay the editorial process.   Adhering to the journal’s formatting guidelines shows professionalism, respect for the editor’s time, and increases the chances of a smooth review and timely decision. Look at the journal's specific guidelines prior to submission and ensure that the manuscript is formatted accordingly. Get a second opinion or professional support to make sure you have adhered to all the requirements.

The answer depends on the reason for rejection. If the manuscript was rejected because it did not meet the journal’s aims and scope, then resubmitting the paper to the same journal is not recommended, especially if it was a desk rejection. 

You should disclose any personal, financial, or other relationships that may appear to be influencing or influencing your work.