Elsevier Author Services – Articles
  • Language Editing Services
  • Translation Services
  • Author’s Webshop
Facebook
Pinterest
LinkedIn
YouTube
WeChat
x
Elsevier Author Services – Articles
Language Editing Services by Elsevier Author Services
Elsevier Author Services – Articles
  • Research Process
  • Manuscript Preparation
  • Manuscript Review
  • Publication Process
  • Publication Recognition
  • English
Publishing in Special Issues: Is it good for my career?
  • Research Process

Publishing in Special Issues: Is it good for my career?

  • 4 minute read
  • 21K views
Total
0
Shares
0
0
0
0
0

Table of Contents

  • What is a special issue?
  • Is it good to publish in special issues?
  • How can I publish in the special issue?
    • The Bottom Line

As a researcher and author, at some point, you might get the opportunity to contribute to a special journal issue. Many academic authors ask, “Is it good to publish in special issues?” The short answer is a resounding “yes”!

In this article, we’ll discuss different aspects of publishing in special issues, including what you need for a journal special issue proposal, the special issue vs regular issue, and even how you can be a guest editor of a special issue.

Read on to learn more about this valuable tool to advance the visibility of your work and the opportunity to collaborate with other researchers in your field.

What is a special issue?

A special issue is different from a regular journal issue since it focuses on a specific topic of research that usually has a broad appeal. The special issue still falls within the scope of the research journal, and is an outstanding way to explore a particular theme, review previously unaddressed issues, and even propose or develop brand new approaches to the topic. A special issue can also inspire new ideas for research.

Some special issues are commissioned by research bodies and institutions, while others are proposed by researchers in the field. In addition, a special issue may be published to commemorate or recognize the contribution of a researcher or a research group to the field or topic.

Is it good to publish in special issues?

The answer to this question is simple. Yes! Here are some of our favorite reasons.

First and foremost, there’s visibility. Most articles from a special issue are published on ScienceDirect. This research platform has more than 2.5 million daily visitors, and almost 40 research article downloads every second. Of those, special issue articles are downloaded twice as much as regular journal articles within 24 h of being published on the platform.

Another essential benefit of publishing in special issues is fast publication times. In general, these issues are published much more quickly than in regular journals.

Your exposure is also increased by publishing in a special issue. It’s not unusual for articles in special issues to be referenced more often than regular issue articles. In fact, special issue articles are cited up to 20% more in the first two years than articles that are published in standard journal issues. Additionally, special issues are typically promoted through social media platforms, further increasing your visibility and potential audience.

Another important benefit of publishing in a special issue is that your article will be reviewed by at least two independent experts in your field. This is to ensure the originality and quality that a special issue demands. Special issues also often have highly regarded editorial teams.

Collaborating and publishing with your peers is a great way to utilize your network and tap into different perspectives in your field. This can also contribute to your work having a long-term impact since your article in a special issue can often mean that more readers will find your research.

How can I publish in the special issue?

If you are interested in proposing a special issue, first decide on a topic or theme, and then select a journal. It’s best to do some preliminary research on any specific guidelines required by the journal you select. Also, check the Guide for Authors of the journal you are considering.

When putting together your proposal, make sure you follow the template provided by most journals. Usually there is a proposal form that you can fill out. For Elsevier journals, you can submit your proposal here. Simply follow the system prompts, including the proposal type, the name of the journal you’d like to publish to, and complete all the steps for submission, including attaching any mandatory files.

From there, your proposal will be forwarded to the appropriate editors, who will let you know if your proposal requires revision, is accepted or rejected. If it’s ultimately accepted, you’ll be invited to act as a Guest Editor. Most journals, and journal platforms like Elsevier, utilize a specialized online Editorial Manager system. Every special issue, and all of its articles, also undergo a peer review by at least two independent field experts.

There are additional guidelines that you will need to follow, so make sure you are aware of your responsibilities before you take on this important task.

The Bottom Line

There’s no better way to increase your visibility, and the visibility of your work, than to publish in a special issue of your chosen journal. Not only will you be able to reach a much larger audience, but you will also be collaborating with other experts in your field, and starting important conversations that can advance topic-specific knowledge. Publishing in special issues is unquestionably beneficial to your academic and professional career.

Language Editing Express

It’s critical for your career to ensure article publication, and the easiest way to do that is to take advantage of Elsevier’s Language Editing Express services. In addition to a faster turnaround time, our editing services include logic and flow evaluation, editing for perfect English, and checking references and citations. Click here to find out more, and get started today.

Type in wordcount for Express
Total:
Contact us: if your manuscript is longer than 12,000 words.
Upload
Total
0
Shares
Post 0
Tweet 0
Share 0
Send 0
Message 0
Previous Article
How to Write an Academic Blog Post and Get Noticed
  • Publication Recognition

How to Write an Academic Blog Post and Get Noticed

View Post
Next Article
Predatory Journal Checklist
  • Research Process

What is a Predatory Journal: Checklist

View Post
You May Also Like
Doctor doing a Biomedical Research Paper
View Post
  • Research Process

Five Common Mistakes to Avoid When Writing a Biomedical Research Paper

View Post
  • Research Process

Making Technical Writing in Environmental Engineering Accessible

Risks of AI-assisted Academic Writing
View Post
  • Research Process

To Err is Not Human: The Dangers of AI-assisted Academic Writing

Importance-of-Data-Collection
View Post
  • Research Process

When Data Speak, Listen: Importance of Data Collection and Analysis Methods

choosing the Right Research Methodology
View Post
  • Research Process

Choosing the Right Research Methodology: A Guide for Researchers

Analytical Method Validation
View Post
  • Research Process

Navigating the Reproducibility Crisis: A Guide to Analytical Method Validation

Why is data validation important in research
View Post
  • Research Process

Why is data validation important in research?

Writing a good review article
View Post
  • Research Process

Writing a good review article

  • Research Paper Conclusion

    Research Paper Conclusion: Know How To Write It

    • 4 minute read
    View Post
  • What is Journal Impact Factor

    What is Journal Impact Factor?

    • 3 minute read
    View Post
  • Tips to Formalize your writing

    Formalizing your writing: 5 top tips

    • 2 minute read
    View Post
  • How to Use Tables and Figures effectively in Research Papers

    How to Use Tables and Figures effectively in Research Papers

    • 3 minute read
    View Post
  • Manuscript Submission

    From Pen to Press: Navigating the Manuscript Submission Process

    • 3 minute read
    View Post
More Posts
  • How to Write Clear Civil Engineering Papers
    How to Write Clear and Crisp Civil Engineering Papers? Here are 5 Key Tips to Consider
    • 4 minute read
  • The Clear Path to An Impactful Paper: ②
    • 3 minute read
  • Essentials of Writing to Communicate Research in Medicine
    The Essentials of Writing to Communicate Research in Medicine
    • 3 minute read
  • editing experience with English-speaking experts
    A profound editing experience with English-speaking experts: Elsevier Language Services to learn more!
    • 4 minute read
  • Doctor doing a Biomedical Research Paper
    Five Common Mistakes to Avoid When Writing a Biomedical Research Paper
    • 4 minute read
  • Making Technical Writing in Environmental Engineering Accessible
    • 4 minute read
Price Calculator
Type in wordcount for Standard
Total:
Follow this link if your manuscript is longer than 12,000 words.
Upload
Learn more about
  • Research Process
  • Manuscript Preparation
  • Manuscript Review
  • Publication Process
  • Publication Recognition
  • News
Language Editing Services
Elsevier Author Services – Articles
  • Language Editing Services
  • Translation Services
  • Author’s Webshop
Elsevier wordmark
Terms & Conditions

Cookies are used by this site. To decline or learn more, visit our Cookies page.

RELX Wordmark

Input your search keywords and press Enter.