FAQs about Real Journal Review (RJR)

1. What service does RJR provide?

RJR provides one written review of a scholarly manuscript by a real member of the editorial review board of a scholarly journal (currently serving or has previously served) in the same academic area as the topic of the manuscript. As is custom in the traditional peer review process, the RJR reviewer remains anonymous throughout the entire process.

2. Does RJR guarantee that a manuscript will not be rejected by a journal if the author follows all RJR suggestions?

No, RJR cannot make any such guarantee and, in fact, offers no guarantee or prediction regarding the publication decisions of any scholarly journal or other publication outlet. The objective of the RJR service is to provide information to authors that will assist them in placing their absolute “best foot forward” when submitting a manuscript for peer review. The ultimate decision made by whatever journal or other outlet to which the manuscript has been submitted, is realistically beyond the control of RJR.

3. How much does RJR charge for the service?

A comprehensive answer begins by noting that one RJR charge is fixed, and the other is variable. The charge that is fixed is the annual registration fee, currently set at $25 (but it is being waived through 12/31/2020 as a promotion). The annual registration fee entitles the site user to purchase services on this site for 365 days after the date of registration and RJR’s receipt of the annual registration fee. Currently, the only payment method accepted by this site is PayPal.

The charge that can vary is the manuscript evaluation fee. This fee is based on the number of words in the manuscript that is uploaded for review. RJR charges twelve cents (0.12 dollars, US) per word in the manuscript, with a minimum charge of two-hundred-fifty dollars ($250 US) per manuscript regardless of the manuscript size. Please note that these charges are subject to change and any such changes will be made with reasonable advance notice to site visitors.

4. Why is there, in essence, two fees?

The annual registration fee is used to support all of the costs that went into both the creation of the RJR website, as well the current (and future) costs of maintaining and updating the site. Proceeds from the manuscript evaluation fee cover the costs associated with having the manuscript read and commented on, the expenses associated with storage of records, as well as administrative costs associated with the timely processing of manuscripts and feedback.

5. Will the paper I submit to RJR really be reviewed and commented on by a member of the editorial board of a scholarly journal in the area of the subject matter or topic of the paper submitted?

Yes. Members of the editorial board of scholarly journals, typically have special expertise or knowledge in particular subject area; they draw on that knowledge in their capacity as “gatekeepers” to the scholarly literature. When those same members of editorial boards apply their expertise and knowledge to review manuscripts submitted to RJR, they do so more in the capacity of “mentors” to the authors requesting a professional evaluation of their work.

6. Once I receive a review of my paper back from RJR, can I ask follow-up questions to the reviewer or ask the reviewer to comment on my response to their review?

No. Much like it is typically impossible to raise author questions and comments with the anonymous reviews received after formal submission of a manuscript to a scholarly journal, it is incumbent upon the author to act on the feedback from the reviewer, without extended interaction with that reviewer.

7. How should manuscripts be prepared for uploading to RJR?

RJR accepts all manuscripts in any form or style for review. However, for best results, we strongly advise site users to submit manuscripts that conform to APA style, and that have been “blinded” by the authors (that is, submitted with the author’s name and affiliation omitted). Manuscripts that are not submitted by authors in blinded form will be sent exactly as submitted to reviewers.

8. How may I expect to receive feedback on my submitted manuscript from RJR?

Within seven (7) business days, you will receive an e-mail from RJR containing the RJR review of your work.

9. Is RJR accepting applications from scholars in diverse specialty areas to work as paid, independent contractors who review for RJR?

Yes. However, you must currently be serving on the editorial board of a scholarly journal in your discipline. To be considered, kindly submit a letter of introduction stating your interest and qualifications, along with your curriculum vitae to: goldpalmsinc@aol.com

10. Will I become wealthy reviewing for RJR?

No. However, you will enrich prospective authors in your discipline with your insights and perspective. Much like the service you provide as a member of a journal’s editorial board, you will be providing a much-needed service to the community of professionals in your academic discipline.

11. In what disciplines are papers currently being accepted for review by RJR?

The list is constantly expanding but currently includes:
Psychology
Consumer Psychology
Management
Marketing

12. In what disciplines are reviewers currently beings sought by RJR?

All disciplines. Refer to FAQ #9 (above) to apply to become a reviewer.

13. How long is my complimentary (or paid) annual RJR membership good for?

One year from the date of registration... which is, after all, why it is called an “annual membership.”

14. What if I do not currently have a PayPal account?

You will have to open one to use RJR as that is the only payment method that we currently accept.