Post-Acceptance Edits in Elsevier Journals: Guidelines and Protocols

After a manuscript is accepted by an Elsevier journal and sent back for proofreading, you may wonder about the extent to which you can edit the paper. This guide aims to clarify the scope of permissible edits and the process while ensuring a smooth publication process.

Scope of Edits

Typically, when a paper is accepted by an Elsevier journal and returned for proofreading, you are allowed to make minor corrections. These corrections should be limited to:

Typographical Errors: Minor spelling mistakes or incorrect punctuation. Grammatical Issues: Incorrect word usage or sentence structure. Formatting Adjustments: Ensuring consistent formatting and style throughout the document.

Major changes to the content, results, or conclusions are generally not allowed at this stage. Substantial revisions may require re-submission and could delay the publication process.

Proofreading Process

The proofreading stage is primarily a quality control phase, focusing on the clarity and correctness of the text. Editors and proofreaders may flag areas for attention, and it is your responsibility to address these with minor edits.

Submission of Edits

When submitting your corrections, it is advisable to provide a detailed list of the changes, especially if they exceed simple typographical corrections. This transparency helps the journal maintain accurate records and ensures a smooth publication process.

Journal Policies

While the general guidelines apply, it is crucial to refer to the specific journal's guidelines. Elsevier's instructions for authors, along with the journal's editorial guidelines, provide detailed information on permissible edits during the proofreading phase. Adhering to these policies can prevent unnecessary delays and improve the publication process.

Post-Acceptance Revisions

Once a manuscript is accepted, substantial edits to the content may require approval from the journal’s editor. Minor corrections, such as typos or formatting issues, can often be made during the proofreading phase, but major changes like adding new data or significantly revising sections may necessitate a second round of review.

When you receive galley proofs, you can make minor changes to ensure consistency and accuracy. However, any significant alterations could incur additional costs and may require a revision. Large changes may delay the publication process, and it is important to communicate with the editorial office to understand their policies and ensure compliance.

Even after publication, you may be able to make minor changes if they are critical and do not alter the main findings. These corrections will be included in corrigenda or other supplementary materials.

Conclusion

Post-acceptance edits in Elsevier journals are generally limited to minor corrections, focusing on clarity and correctness. Understanding the scope of permissible changes and adhering to the journal's guidelines can help streamline the publication process. By following the outlined protocols, you can maintain the integrity of your research while ensuring its timely and accurate dissemination.