What Does “Revise and Resubmit” Mean?
Revise and resubmit means the journal is willing to consider a new version after substantial changes. It is an opportunity, not a promise of acceptance.
A revise-and-resubmit decision means the editor sees enough potential to invite another version, but the current manuscript is not ready for acceptance. The next decision depends on how well the revision addresses the editor and reviewer concerns. Treat the decision letter as a new project plan: identify required scientific changes, decide whether the requested work is feasible, revise the manuscript thoroughly, and submit a transparent point-by-point response.
R&R Is Not Acceptance
The manuscript remains under evaluation. A strong revision can move it forward, while an incomplete response can lead to another revision round or rejection.
Read the Editor's Letter Before the Reviews
The editor's summary often reveals which reviewer concerns are decision-critical and which are secondary. Use it to prioritize the work.
Decide Whether the Revision Is Feasible
Some requests may require new analyses or substantial rewriting; others may ask for data or experiments that are impossible. Assess scope and deadline before committing to the resubmission.
Plan the Revision as a Traceable Workflow
Use a matrix linking each comment to an action, owner, manuscript location, and response status. This becomes the control document for the revision.
When to Contact the Editor
Contact the editor when requested changes conflict, the deadline is unrealistic, or a requested experiment or dataset cannot reasonably be produced.
Frequently asked questions
No. It means the journal is willing to evaluate a substantially revised version.
Not necessarily. Consider the scope of requested work, journal fit, timing, and whether the editor's requirements are feasible.
Often yes. If the requested work genuinely requires more time, contact the editor before the deadline and explain why.
References
- PMC — A Practical Guide on Responding to Reviews
Peer-reviewed practical guidance on preparing revisions and point-by-point responses.
- ICMJE Recommendations
International recommendations on responsible manuscript preparation, reporting, and editorial practice.