Journal matrix : a tool for extension scholarship

Abstract

Throughout their careers, faculty make multiple decisions about which journal to submit their manuscripts to. More often than not, the journal review process can take several months to over a year. In a 2015 survey of Washington State University Extension faculty affiliated with the Youth and Family program unit, 60% of respondents reported that on average it has taken 12 or more months from the time an article is submitted until the time it is published. Considering the length of time and effort it takes to publish a manuscript, it is crucial for authors to select the appropriate journal. At minimum, writers should pick a target journal before they begin writing. Choosing a journal before you begin writing allows you to better understand your audience and tailor writing to that group. Researchers recommend using a systematic process to evaluate potential journals by using a standard set of questions to help guide the analysis of prospective journals.