The Manuscript Readiness Level

Manuscript Readiness Level (MRL)

Before submitting your manuscript, it is highly recommended that you pre-evaluate it using the Manuscript Readiness Level (MRL), an instrument we have developed to help streamline and optimise the peer review process.

Pre-Evaluation Criteria   Strong
(Level 1)		 Fair
(Level 2)		 Poor
(Level 3)
Title: Clear, informative, and accurately reflects the content of the article.   5 3 2
Abstract: Concise and includes the research problem, objectives, methodology, key findings, and implications.   10 5 2
Keywords: Easily searchable, accurately represent the research focus. Use only single words, not phrases. Three to five keywords are recommended.   5 3 2
Introduction: Clearly outlines the importance of the research, presents a significant problem, includes a state-of-the-art review, identifies the gap, and proposes novel concepts. Ends with a clear objective.   15 10 5
Method: Clear and replicable. Describes how research objectives are achieved using appropriate tools, procedures, and stages.   10 5 2
Results: Presents experimental, survey, or other relevant data. Results are displayed clearly using well-structured tables and figures.   15 10 5
Discussion: Insightful and meaningful. Demonstrates how the research advances knowledge in comparison to previous studies.   20 15 5
Conclusion: Summarises the key findings and connects them to the research objectives stated in the introduction.   10 4 1
References: Reliable and credible. At least 80% from reputable journals (last 10 years). Use reference management tools.   10 5 1
Total Score   100 60 25

Decision Matrix

Score Probability
85–100 Most likely to be published with minimal discussion with the Editor/Reviewer.
70–84 Minor revision may be required (if there are no fundamental errors).
50–69 Major revision likely to be necessary.
25–49 Most likely to be rejected at the initial stage.

Disclaimer: The Manuscript Readiness Level (MRL) above is intended to be used by authors as a tool to optimise the peer review process. The decision to accept or reject an article for publication in the Journal of Contemporary Governance and Public Policy rests with the Editor, based on recommendations from the reviewers.