Main reasons for article rejection in Scopus Q1–Q2 and how to avoid them

Publication in Scopus Q1–Q2 journals — This is the pinnacle of academic success for many researchers. However, the competition there is extremely high: dozens or even hundreds of articles may compete for one place. The editors of such journals strictly select materials already at the desk review stage, and the slightest mistake can lead to a rejection.

We've compiled six major reasons for article rejections in Scopus Q1–Q2 and tips on how to avoid them.

1. Scope mismatch

Even a strong, well-done paper won't stand a chance if it doesn't fit the subject profile of the publication. For example, if you submit an economics article to a journal specializing in medical research, rejection is guaranteed.

How to avoid:

Please review the journal's Aims & Scope carefully before submitting.
Browse the last 5-10 published articles.
If the topic is related, it is better to write a clarifying letter in advance asking whether the journal will be interested in it. Editors of Scopus Q1–Q2 journals, especially those of large publishers, often respond to such requests.

2. Weak scientific level of the article

Scopus Q1–Q2 — This is not the place to repeat well-known facts or superficial research. A common reason for rejection is a lack of scientific novelty, weak methodology, or a banal retelling of someone else's conclusions.

How to avoid:

Make sure that your research is truly new and unique, and not a repetition of already published work.
Use only relevant and high-quality literature from well-known journals of major publishers (Springer, Elsevier, Wiley, etc.).
Show the practical significance of the results obtained.

Want to learn how to increase your chances of getting published and avoid the mistakes that get strong articles rejected?

We invite you to an online webinar "The Whole Truth About Scopus Publications Q1–Q2 in 2025", which will take place August 20.

We will analyze the real reasons for refusals, successful cases and provide a checklist of journals in which it is possible to get published in 4 months.

3. Poorly or incorrectly formatted abstract

Abstract - This is the first thing the editor reads. If it is unstructured, without keywords, or does not match the journal template, the article may be rejected without even being sent for review.

How to avoid:

Please follow the journal's abstract requirements (length, structure, key elements).
Include: purpose of the study, methods, main results, conclusions, and practical significance.
Use relevant keywords for better indexing.

4. Low quality of English

Errors, tracing from the native language, non-academic style or confusing wording can spoil the impression of even a strong work. Q1–Q2 editors will not waste time on articles that are difficult to read.

How to avoid:

Use professional academic editing (Language Editing).
Check your text for grammar and style using Grammarly, Writefull or Paperpal.
Read articles from the same magazine to get a feel for its style.

5. Lack of necessary accompanying documents

In Scopus Q1–Q2 journals, editors are extremely strict about the completeness of the accompanying documentation. This may include: cover letters, ethical permissions, consent forms signed by all authors, author contribution statements, declarations of no conflict of interest, etc. The absence of even one document leads to immediate rejection of the article at the desk review stage — without sending it for review.

How to avoid:

Please check the journal's requirements for supporting materials before submitting.
Use the document checklist to make sure you don't miss anything.
Please complete and sign all forms in accordance with editorial instructions.

6. Violation of requirements for article formatting

Even the best work can be rejected if it is formatted "in your own way" and not according to the journal's requirements. This is a signal to the editor that the author is inattentive and not ready to work according to the standards.

How to avoid:

Download the article template from the journal's website.
Please follow the citation format (APA, Harvard, Vancouver, etc.).
Check that all tables, figures and captions comply with the requirements.

Conclusion

Publication in Scopus Q1–Q2 — This is a marathon, not a sprint. It requires not only high-quality research, but also attention to detail: from the relevance of the topic to the correct design. Each of the errors described can cost you months of work, so preparing an article should be systematic.

If you want to gain a deeper understanding of the publishing process, understand which Q1–Q2 journals are really suitable for your topic, and learn how to avoid typical mistakes authors make, join the free webinar "The Whole Truth About Scopus Publications Q1–Q2 in 2025", which will pass August 20. This is a great opportunity to get answers to questions and increase your chances of successful publication.