Two Convenient Submission Methods

Choose the submission pathway that works best for your research workflow. Both methods provide secure, efficient manuscript handling with full tracking capabilities.

Manuscript Types for Water Science Research

Water publishes diverse research contributions that advance our understanding of hydrological processes, aquatic ecosystems, marine biogeochemistry, and water resource management. Our expert reviewers evaluate manuscripts across the full spectrum of water science disciplines.

Pre-Submission Checklist

Ensure your manuscript is complete and properly formatted before submission. This checklist helps streamline the review process and reduces the likelihood of administrative delays.

Transparent Peer Review Timeline

We believe in complete transparency throughout the publication process. Here's exactly what happens after you submit your hydrological research to Water.

What Happens at Each Stage

Initial Screening (3 days): Our editorial team verifies that your manuscript meets basic submission requirements, checks for plagiarism using iThenticate (similarity index must be below 30%), and ensures the research falls within the scope of Water. Manuscripts are screened for completeness, proper formatting, and adherence to ethical guidelines.

Editor Assignment (2 days): Your manuscript is assigned to an associate editor with expertise in your specific area of hydrology or water science. This ensures your work is evaluated by someone who understands the nuances of your research methodology and can identify the most qualified reviewers.

Peer Review (21 days): Your manuscript is sent to 2-3 expert reviewers who are active researchers in hydrological sciences, marine biogeochemistry, or related water science disciplines. Reviewers evaluate scientific rigor, methodological soundness, data quality, interpretation validity, and contribution to the field. We use single-blind peer review to maintain objectivity.

Editorial Decision (3 days): Based on reviewer feedback, the editor makes one of four decisions: Accept (rare on first submission), Minor Revisions (address specific comments), Major Revisions (substantial changes needed), or Reject (fundamental flaws or out of scope). You receive detailed reviewer comments and clear guidance on required changes.

Revision Period (Author-controlled): If revisions are requested, you have flexibility to address reviewer comments thoroughly. We recommend submitting revisions within 60 days to maintain momentum, but extensions are available upon request. Your revised manuscript should include a point-by-point response to each reviewer comment.

Final Review (14 days): Revised manuscripts are returned to the original reviewers or evaluated by the editor to ensure all concerns have been adequately addressed. This stage is typically faster as reviewers focus specifically on whether their previous comments were resolved.

Production (10 days): Accepted manuscripts enter our production workflow where they are copyedited, formatted to journal style, and converted to publication-ready PDF and HTML formats. You'll receive proofs for final approval before publication.

Publication (Immediate): Upon your approval of proofs, your article is immediately published online with a DOI, making it instantly citable and discoverable. Open access ensures your research reaches the global water science community without barriers.

Why Hydrologists Choose Water

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of hydrological research does Water publish?

Water publishes research across the full spectrum of hydrological sciences, including surface water hydrology, groundwater systems, watershed modeling, water quality assessment, aquatic ecosystem dynamics, marine biogeochemistry, oceanographic processes, water resource management, climate-water interactions, and hydrogeology. We welcome both fundamental research advancing hydrological theory and applied studies addressing real-world water challenges.

How long does the peer review process take?

Our average time to first decision is 21 days from submission. The complete process from submission to publication typically takes 60 days, including one revision cycle. We provide real-time status updates through ManuscriptZone so you always know where your manuscript stands in the review process.

What is the acceptance rate for Water?

Our current acceptance rate is 55%. We maintain rigorous peer review standards while recognizing that high-quality hydrological research takes many forms. Manuscripts are evaluated on scientific merit, methodological rigor, data quality, and contribution to water science knowledge, not on novelty alone.

Are there article processing charges (APCs)?

Yes, as an open access journal, Water charges APCs to cover publication costs. However, we offer waivers and discounts for authors from low-income countries, unfunded research, and early-career researchers. Financial constraints should never prevent publication of quality water science research. Contact us to discuss waiver eligibility before submission.

Can I suggest reviewers for my manuscript?

Yes, you may suggest potential reviewers during submission. Please provide their names, affiliations, email addresses, and a brief explanation of their expertise relevant to your manuscript. While we appreciate suggestions, final reviewer selection is at the editor's discretion to ensure objectivity and appropriate expertise.

What happens if my manuscript is rejected?

If your manuscript is rejected, you'll receive detailed feedback explaining the decision and reviewer comments. This feedback can help you improve the manuscript for submission elsewhere. We aim to provide constructive criticism even in rejection decisions. In some cases, we may suggest resubmission after major revisions if the core research is sound but presentation needs substantial improvement.

Do you accept previously published data or results?

We accept manuscripts that include previously published data if they provide new analysis, interpretation, or synthesis that advances understanding beyond the original publication. However, the manuscript must contain substantial new content and clearly acknowledge previous publications. Simple repackaging of published work is not acceptable.

What format should I use for my manuscript?

We accept manuscripts in Microsoft Word (.docx) or LaTeX format. Manuscripts should be double-spaced with line numbers for easy review. Figures should be submitted as separate high-resolution files (TIFF or EPS format, 300 DPI minimum). Detailed formatting guidelines are available in our Author Instructions.