Impact factor is the metric used in scientific publishing that provides an assessment of the influence of the journal. It was introduced in the 1960’s to communicate a journals reputation and relevance within its discipline. Impact factor is calculated by:

For example, an impact factor of 1.0 means that, on average, articles published within the previous two years have been cited one time. An impact factor of 78.5 means that, on average, articles published within the previous two years have been cited 78.5 times. Therefore, the higher the impact factor, the greater the number of times the article is likely to be cited. This means that journals with a higher impact factor have a higher number of submissions than the average journal, as authors tend to target journals with the highest reach in their respective academic discipline. Higher impact journals can therefore be more selective and often have a high rejection rate.

Main requirements of a manuscript suitable for a high impact journal

When developing a manuscript for consideration by a high impact journal, key requirements include:

1. A compelling narrative
   This is pivotal. High impact journals are the most widely read and distributed and therefore receive a large variety of submissions. Their subscription fees for their print and digital offerings can be quite high, so their aim is to provide their readership with inspiring scientific research. To enhance the chances of your manuscript being accepted by one of these journals, ensure you have an interesting topic and a clear narrative that fits within the journal word count.
2. Novel data
   Similar to the first point, novel data is a vital part of a high impact submission. For example, studies that share secondary trial data, replicate previous data, or literature reviews of previously published studies are often not considered by higher tier journals. Original research should provide new insights into the treatment landscape and ultimately become a landing point for new hypotheses to spring from. High impact journals have their choice from a huge variety of submissions and novel data will be most appealing to their readership.
3. Clarity and accuracy
   Data check and quality control is a vital part of any manuscript development, but with a high impact journal, this is even more important. Often there will be more than two peer reviewers, and the journal may have a dedicated statistical reviewer. Whilst the journal does not perform its own data check, you can guarantee that they will pick up on any inconsistencies in the data or writing. If there are any oddities in the data, be sure to explain these in the discussion.
4. Styled to journal requirements
   This goes without saying for any journal, but bear in mind that the higher impact journals often run the submission through rigorous editorial steps when it is first received. High impact journals may use software such as iThenticate® (an evolution of Turnitin^TM software) that is used to assess the level of plagiarism. The editorial office is also likely to perform a preliminary assessment of the manuscript before it reaches peer review assignment. Styling your manuscript to their requirements is imperative; it demonstrates diligence and respect for the time of both the peer reviewers and editorial office.

Why choose a high impact journal?

High impact journals offer researchers greater visibility, which can lead to increased citations and recognition. Increased citations mean that your research is shared more widely and can improve your standing within the scientific community. High impact journals provide legitimate and thorough peer review, often by some of the most respected names in the field.

Therefore, these well-renowned journals play an indispensable role in shaping the landscape of academic research and disseminating innovative ideas.

How to choose an appropriate high impact journal?

Target journal research is a key part of any publication project. To select a journal, you should consider the following:

• Impact factor requirements
• Audience
• Rejection rate
• Word count, and figure and table allowances
• Supporting documentation requirements (e.g. does the journal require a protocol to be uploaded, either for peer-review or to be made available publicly in a supplement)
• If the journal offers it, consider a pre‑submission enquiry

Resources for writing a manuscript for a high impact journal

To write a high-quality manuscript, we leverage a variety of resources, such as:

• Study documents including clinical study reports, protocols, statistical analysis plans, and study data (tables, figures, and listings; slide decks)
• Literature reviews using PubMed to find relevant references to help craft the introduction, discussion, and provide context to the current research
• If required, we can also perform competitive landscape analyses, examining other trials and interventions in the therapy area
• We can leverage GraphPad or work with our studio partner to generate creative and appealing figures

General timeframe for writing for a high impact journal

The exact timeframe can vary depending on the number of drafts, authors, and the amount and complexity of the data. Usually, a manuscript for a high impact journal can be turned around in 6 months, which ensures ample time for client, author, and internal governance review.

Alchemy’s top tips for authoring manuscripts for high impact journals

Here’s what our Principal Medical Writer and Certified Medical Publication Professional^TM, Bryony McNamara, had to say about authoring manuscripts for high impact journals:

“When preparing a manuscript suitable for a high impact factor journal, we work closely with our clients to ensure a compelling narrative is created. We keep the manuscript focussed on the topic at hand and structure it specifically for the requirements of the chosen journal. Journals can vary widely in their word count allowances, but high impact factor journals typically require concise writing (<4000 words). This communicates to their readership that they value their time. High impact journals therefore intentionally screen out lengthy documents which time-pressed individuals are less likely to read. At Alchemy, we’ll assist you to find the balance between scientific accuracy and accessible, effective communication.”

How can Alchemy help with manuscripts targeted to high impact journals?

To discuss your manuscript writing needs, please contact our team here.

You can read more about how we prepared manuscripts for the New England Journal of Medicine here and Lancet Respiratory Medicine here.