Peer Review Template - PLOS

When you choose to publish with PLOS, your research makes an impact. Make your work accessible to all, without restrictions, and accelerate scientific discovery with options like preprints and published peer review that make your work more Open.

Journals
More Content

Peer Review Template

PLOS

Save or print this guide
Download PDF

Think about structuring your reviewer report like an upside-down pyramid. The most important information goes at the top, followed by supporting details.

Sample outline

  1. Summary of the research and your overall impression

    In your own words, summarize the main research question, claims, and conclusions of the study. Provide context for how this research fits within the existing literature.

    Discuss the manuscript’s strengths and weaknesses and your overall recommendation.

  1. Evidence and examples

    Major Issues

    Major issues must be addressed in order for the manuscript to proceed. Focus on what is essential for the current study, not the next step in the research. Put these items in a list and be as specific as possible.

    Major Issues

    Mention additional things the authors should do to improve the manuscript. Typically these will be changes that would not affect the overall conclusions.

  1. Other points (optional) If applicable, add confidential comments for the editors. Raise any concerns about the manuscript that they may need to consider further, such as concerns about ethics. Do not use this section for your overall critique. Also mention whether you might be available to look at a revised version.
< Back to all Reviewer Resources

Back to top