Celebrating 25 years of the Australasian Journal of Environmental Management: the environment profession’s purpose, vision and values

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Editors tip:

How should an author respond to peer reviewer advice? It is easy to be dismayed if reviews are unfavourable, especially if they are also worded in less than diplomatic ways.

First, put it aside for a day or two, then return to read it more carefully and calmly. Work out what the reviewers are really saying, or looking for. A common approach is to use the rejoinder table for the team of authors to plan and list how to address each comment. Then, as the manuscript is finalised, edit the rejoinder table into a final form.

You may believe that the reviewers have failed to understand your work – if so, consider whether you have communicated your purpose and arguments sufficiently. Address all points in each review sincerely and diligently: editors and reviewers are not impressed if you skimp. Look out for ways to address comments parsimoniously. For example, sometimes if you are asked to explain or justify a point, a small edit to the words in contention may solve the problem, rather than new content. You are permitted to disagree with some of the advice, but always justify why you should not make the change requested. It is best not to do this often: editors are unimpressed with authors who appear not to be trying or are rigid in defending their viewpoint.

Above all, take a positive attitude. You, the reviewers and editor want to see the best possible work published. Embrace this chance to raise your standard, to better communicate your message to the reader, and welcome the assistance.

Acknowledgements

We acknowledge the members of the EIANZ working group created to develop EIANZ’s purpose, vision and values: Vicki Brady (Chair and EIANZ Board representative), Carolyn Cameron (ACT Division President, Advisory Council Chair and representative), Mark Bellingham (New Zealand Vice President), David Carberry (SEQ Division), Jack Annear (SA Division), Jill Bunnell (Victorian Division), and Alan Chenoweth (CEnvP Board Chair and representative).