Peer Review Policy
Last reviewed: January 2026
Overview
All submissions to JCAR undergo double-blind peer review. Authors and reviewers remain anonymous to each other throughout the review process. The Editor makes all final publication decisions.
Review Process
On submission, the Editor screens the paper for scope, compliance, and basic quality. Papers that do not meet minimum standards are desk-rejected within 10 business days. Papers that pass screening are assigned to two independent reviewers selected from the reviewer panel based on subject expertise.
Reviewers are asked to assess: originality, methodological rigour, accuracy of citations, clarity of argument, and relevance to JCAR's scope. Reviewers provide a written report and a recommendation: accept, minor revision, major revision, or reject.
Timelines
Initial editorial decision: within 10 business days of submission. Review period: 4 to 6 weeks from assignment. Authors are notified of delays where they arise.
Reviewer Responsibilities
Reviewers must declare any conflicts of interest before accepting an assignment. Reviewers must treat submissions as confidential and must not share, cite, or use unpublished material without the author's written permission. Reviewers should decline assignments outside their expertise.
Appeals
Authors who believe a rejection was based on factual error or procedural irregularity may submit a written appeal to the Editor within 30 days. The Editor's decision on appeal is final.