Detangling Manuscript Types: Short Articles Explained

As announced in October 2023, the Policy Studies Journal (PSJ) editorial team has expanded the range of manuscripts we consider for publication through the addition of two short-article formats, the research note and the perspectives piece.

Below we answer some frequently asked questions about how these manuscripts are processed and evaluated.

Question 1: Do short article forms go through a less stringent review process from traditional research articles?

All short articles submitted to PSJ – both research notes and perspectives pieces alike – receive the same level of peer review as traditional research articles. Submitting your manuscript as a short article does not mean you will lose the opportunity to get valuable feedback from multiple reviewers, nor does doing so give it a higher chance of acceptance. To ensure manuscript quality across the board, every submission undergoes the same peer review process. 

Question 2: If I submit my manuscript as one type, will it only be considered for publication in that form?

There’s no need to worry about designating your manuscript a certain way – PSJ editors are here to help. If our editors believe your submission might be better designated as a different manuscript type, we will reach out to you directly to discuss it. With this, there is no “right way” to designate your manuscript submission. 

Question 3: If I am asked to consider designating my manuscript as a short article, is this a request to downgrade it?

If our editors do reach out and ask you to consider submitting your traditional research article as a short article, this does not mean we believe your manuscript to be less impactful for policy process theory. Accepted short articles meet the same high standards for both theoretical depth and methodological sophistication, just using a narrower scope. 

With these new additions, our goal is to advance the theoretical literature surrounding the policy process with the understanding that novel methodological approaches, empirical replications, and theoretical arguments are central to that process. We look forward to taking this journey with you!