Deciding where to publish your research can be challenging, especially with the rise of predatory and junk publishers. Predatory publishing is an unethical business model that preys on researchers by charging fees for publication without ensuring the quality and legitimacy of the articles. These publishers often bypass rigorous peer review processes, leading to the dissemination of substandard research. Junk publishers focus on quantity of papers, rather than ensuring the quality of research.
Risks of predatory publishing
The consequences of publishing in predatory journals can include:
- Reputation damage: associating with these journals can harm your professional reputation.
- Lack of indexing: your work may not be indexed in major databases, limiting its visibility and impact.
- Reduced quality of research: these journals often use minimal or no peer review, and scammers may impersonate guest editors to publish fraudulent papers.
Junk publishing practices
Several publishers have been scrutinised for practices including:
- high self-citation rates and rapid publication times, which may compromise the quality of peer review
- frequent special issues and guest editors, leading to the publication of low-quality research.
How to avoid predatory and junk publishers
There are several ways you can protect yourself from predatory and junk publishers.
- Think. Check. Submit.: use this checklist to evaluate the legitimacy of journals.
- Target reputable journals: publish in journals that you read and cite regularly.
- Verify peer review: confirm that the journal is peer-reviewed by checking Ulrichsweb.
- Check guest editors: verify the contact details and credentials of any guest editors.
- Refer to trusted lists: check if your discipline has a trusted list (for example, Australian Business Deans Council journal quality list or Australian Political Studies Association journal list).
- Consult: talk to peers and supervisors for advice on quality journals in your field.
- Learn more about scholarly publishing: check out the information available on the Scholarly publishing webpages and the advice for identifying predatory and unethical publishing.
By staying informed and vigilant, you can ensure your research is published in reputable journals to maintain the integrity and impact of your work. For more information, contact the Library.
