Special issue submission checklist helps authors decide whether a themed journal issue is a good publication route.

Special issues can be valuable because they focus on a specific topic and gather related research. But authors should still check scope, journal quality, indexing, deadlines, fees and editorial process before submitting.

What Is a Special Issue?

A special issue is a themed collection of articles published within a journal. It may be organised by guest editors and focused on a current research topic.

Special issues can help authors:

• Reach a targeted audience
• Join a focused research conversation
• Publish on emerging topics
• Connect with a scholarly community
• Build visibility in a niche field

What to Check First

Before submitting, check:

• Journal title
• Publisher
• Indexing status
• Guest editor credentials
• Special issue theme
• Submission deadline
• Article processing charge
• Peer review process
• Whether the issue is officially listed on the journal website

If the special issue is promoted only through email and not on the journal site, be cautious.

Check Scope Fit

Ask:

• Does the paper match the theme?
• Does the journal publish this type of study?
• Are recent journal articles relevant?
• Would the special issue audience care about the contribution?

Special issue fit should be both thematic and journal-level.

Check Editorial Quality

Look for:

• Named guest editors
• Real affiliations
• Clear peer review policy
• Transparent timeline
• Publisher contact information
• Publication ethics statement

Special issues should still follow normal peer review standards.

Watch for Red Flags

Be careful with:

• Guaranteed acceptance
• Very broad theme
• Unclear fees
• Weak guest editor information
• Fake indexing claims
• Aggressive invitation emails
• Missing journal website listing

FAQs

Q: Are special issues easier to publish in?
A: Not necessarily. Reputable special issues still use peer review.

Q: Are special issues counted the same as regular articles?
A: It depends on institutional rules. Authors should check with their department.

Q: Should authors trust email invitations?
A: Not without verification. Check the journal website and publisher information.

Q: Can special issues be predatory?
A: Yes, some can be. Quality and ethics checks are important.

Check the Journal Behind the Theme

A strong theme is not enough. Authors should verify the journal, editors, indexing and review process with a Special issue submission checklist.