Managing Incongruous Comments from Reviewers & Reaching Concurrence

Managing Incongruous Comments from Reviewers & Reaching Concurrence

Receiving incongruous comments from reviewers is not uncommon in the review process. It can be challenging to manage such feedback and reach a consensus. Here are some strategies to handle incongruous comments and work towards concurrence:

1. Analyze the comments: Carefully analyze each reviewer’s comments and identify the areas of disagreement. Look for common themes or underlying concerns expressed by the reviewers. Understanding the root cause of the incongruity can help in addressing the feedback more effectively.
2. Seek clarification: If the reviewers’ comments seem contradictory or unclear, don’t hesitate to seek clarification. Reach out to the reviewers individually or through the editor, if necessary, to request further explanation or elaboration on specific points. This can help you better understand their perspectives and reconcile conflicting feedback.
3. Focus on the merits of the comments: Assess the validity and scientific rationale behind each comment, regardless of whether they align with your initial perspective or not. Approach the feedback with an open mind and consider the potential impact on the overall quality and credibility of the work. Emphasize the importance of scientific rigor and objectivity in evaluating the comments.
4. Evaluate the evidence: In cases where the incongruity arises due to differences in interpretation or analysis of data, carefully evaluate the evidence presented. Assess the quality and robustness of the data, statistical analyses, and methodologies used. Consider consulting with statistical experts or seeking additional evidence, if necessary, to support your position or address any concerns raised by the reviewers.
5. Engage in constructive dialogue: Engage in a constructive dialogue with the reviewers to clarify points of disagreement and share your perspective respectfully. Clearly articulate your rationale, providing logical and evidence-based arguments to support your position. Acknowledge any valid concerns raised by the reviewers and propose potential solutions or alternative approaches that can address those concerns.
6. Seek mediation if needed: If reaching consensus directly with the reviewers proves challenging, consider involving the editor or an independent mediator. They can help facilitate discussions, provide an objective viewpoint, and guide the resolution process. The mediator can help identify common ground and facilitate compromise where necessary.
7. Revise and resubmit: Once you have carefully considered the feedback and reached a consensus, revise your manuscript accordingly. Address each reviewer’s comments, incorporating the necessary changes, clarifications, or additional evidence. Clearly document your responses to each comment, demonstrating how you have addressed the concerns raised.

Remember that Managing Incongruous Comments from Reviewers & Reaching Concurrence is a review process is intended to improve the quality of the work and ensure its scientific integrity. While it can be frustrating to manage incongruous comments, maintaining a professional and collaborative attitude is essential. By engaging in thoughtful discussions and considering multiple perspectives, you can reach a consensus that strengthens the overall quality of the manuscript.

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