Choosing where to publish your research can be overwhelming, especially with the rise of Open Access (OA) publishing and the presence of predatory journals. Think. Check. Submit. is an international initiative that helps researchers identify trustworthy journals and publishers.
Use this checklist (abbreviated) to make sure a journal is legitimate and appropriate for your work:
Do you or your colleagues know the journal?
Have you read articles from this journal before?
Is it clear what the journal covers and who it’s for?
Is the journal indexed in trusted databases (e.g., PubMed, DOAJ, Scopus)?
Is the publisher transparent about APCs or other fees?
Are the peer review and editorial policies clearly stated?
Is there clear contact information and a verifiable editorial board?
Do you feel confident this journal is a good fit for your work?
Are you comfortable with the publication model and your rights as an author?
Why It Matters in OA Publishing
Predatory journals often mimic legitimate OA practices while lacking scholarly standards. Think. Check. Submit. helps you avoid these traps and choose high-quality OA journals that will preserve the integrity and visibility of your research.
🔗 Learn more: thinkchecksubmit.org
