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4 months ago in Scholarly Publishing By Vipul

My paper was accepted "with minor revisions," but the editor’s decision letter includes a new, substantial suggestion that feels like a major change. How should I respond?

I was thrilled to get a "minor revisions" decision, but the editor's summary asks me to add a completely new analysis or discussion point that would require weeks of extra work. Should I politely push back, do the work, or try to negotiate the scope of the revisions?

All Answers (2 Answers In All)

By Meera Answered 2 months ago

Another approach is to contact the editor directly before submitting your revisions, especially if the suggestion seems like a major additional experiment or analysis. A short, polite email like: "Thank you for your thoughtful feedback. We wanted to clarify whether performing the suggested analysis is expected as part of the minor revisions or if addressing it conceptually in the discussion would suffice," can save a lot of back-and-forth. Editors usually appreciate honesty and clear communication, and this can prevent unnecessary work or misinterpretation.

By Answered 2 months ago

This is a common, frustrating scenario. First, remember that "accept with minor revisions" is a binding decision; your paper is essentially accepted provided you adequately address the points. The editor's new suggestion, while substantial, is often exactly that a suggestion, not a mandatory condition. My approach is to write a respectful, detailed revision cover letter. For the major new point, write: "Regarding the editor's suggestion to add analysis X, we agree it is an interesting direction. However, performing this analysis rigorously would constitute a significant new study beyond the scope of this manuscript. Instead, we have strengthened the discussion on pages Y-Z to more fully acknowledge this limitation and suggest it as future work, citing relevant literature." If the suggestion is truly integral, you may need to do the work. But often, a thoughtful, logical explanation for why you cannot incorporate it is accepted.

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