After you submit your manuscript there is an editorial discussion & assessment to determine either:

1. Return manuscript to author
2. Send the manuscript out for peer review; this includes identifying appropriate reviewers and taking  into consideration the author's suggestions and exclusions; Usually 2 - 4 reviewers per paper

More about peer review:

Kelly, Jacalyn et al. “Peer Review in Scientific Publications: Benefits, Critiques, & A Survival Guide” EJIFCC vol. 25,3 227-43. 24 Oct. 2014

 

There are 3 decisions that can be received by the author:

1. Accept with no revisions (very uncommon)
2. Accept with revisions recommended by editors & reviewers
3. Manuscript rejected

 

If your manuscript has been accepted

• There will be a number of formatting requirements to be adhered to, as well as copy-editing and page layout.  This can be time consuming.
   
• You may also have to pay an article processing fee (APC).  The UofT Library has negotiated discounts for UofT researchers for a number of publishers.
   
• Think carefully about the copyright issues regarding your article.  The UofT Library has resources and services to assist you with regards to understanding copyright.  You can negotiate to retain your rights as an author so you can keep the rights to use and distribute your own work.

 

If your manuscript has been rejected

You can submit a rebuttal or appeal. Ideally this would include point by point response to reviewers' comments.  Stick to the scientific issues, not emotional issues.  Editors may return to reviewers for further guidance or may enlist new reviewers.

More info:

“What to Do When Your Paper Is Rejected” Journal of graduate medical education  vol. 7,1 (2015): 1-3.

5 Options to Consider After Rejection.  The Wiley Network, February 2018.