Today, I will talk about how to propose a special issue for a journal.
What is a special issue?
A special issue is a collection of articles on a specific topic or theme that is published in a journal. Special issues can provide an opportunity to present the latest research, highlight emerging trends, or address gaps in the literature. If you have an idea for a special issue, you may want to apply to be a guest editor and organize it.
How to organize a special issue?
You can follow these steps:
1. Select a journal that is relevant to your topic and has a good reputation or is good according to other criteria that matter to (e.g., a high impact factor, high citation rate, etc.). You should choose a journal that is within the scope of your field and reaches a large audience. You can consult the websites of big publishers to search for journals in your field and compare their metrics and scope.
2. Consult the journal’s website for the guidelines and requirements for special issue proposals. Some journals may have a specific format, template, or online submission system for proposals. Others may ask you to email your proposal to the editor-in-chief or a designated contact person.
3. Prepare a proposal that outlines the rationale, objectives, scope, and expected outcomes of your special issue. You should also include a tentative title, a list of potential topics and keywords, a timeline for submission and publication, and a brief introduction of yourself and any co-editors. You should also demonstrate the significance, relevance, and timeliness of your special issue, and how it will benefit the readers and the field. You may also need to provide some sample papers or abstracts to demonstrate the quality and relevance of your special issue.
4. Submit your proposal to the journal and wait for their response. The journal editors will review your proposal and decide whether to accept, reject, or request revisions. They may also ask you to provide more information, such as the names and affiliations of potential authors and reviewers, or a detailed budget and funding sources.
5. If your proposal is accepted, you will be responsible for managing the editorial process of your special issue. This includes inviting authors, soliciting submissions, coordinating peer review, editing and proofreading manuscripts, and ensuring that the special issue meets the journal’s standards and deadlines. You will also need to communicate with the journal editors and staff, and follow their instructions and policies.
Applying for a special issue can be a rewarding and challenging experience. It can help you showcase your expertise, expand your network, and contribute to the advancement of your field. However, it also requires a good amount of time, effort, and commitment. Therefore, you should carefully consider your motivation, resources, and expectations before applying for a special issue.
Conclusion
That is all for that. It was just a short blog post about how to propose a special issue for a journal.
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Philippe Fournier-Viger is a full professor and the founder of the open-source data mining software SPMF, offering more than 250 data mining algorithms.
