Review Guidelines

Review Guidelines
1. Initial Review
• Scope & Relevance: Ensure the manuscript fits within the aims and scope of IJIL.
• Abstract Screening: Read the abstract to confirm you have the appropriate expertise to review the article. If not, notify the editor immediately.
• Research Question: Assess whether the topic is significant, original, and contributes to the field of Islamic law and society.
• Methodology (for research papers): Evaluate whether the design and method are appropriate and rigorous, or if they are fatally flawed.
• Initial Impression: Decide if the paper is:
   π Acceptable with only minor comments,
   π Rejected due to fatal flaws,
   π Requires major revisions or resubmission.
2. Full Review
• Scientific Quality:
   π Are the results substantial and clearly presented?
   π Are the arguments logical and based on sound reasoning?
   π Are interpretations supported by evidence?
• Writing & Presentation:
   π Is the manuscript logically structured and easy to follow?
   π Are abbreviations used appropriately?
   π Are grammar, punctuation, and spelling at an acceptable level? (Provide examples if language issues are systemic, but do not attempt full editing.)
• Style & Format:
   π Does the manuscript follow IJIL’s style, format, and referencing requirements?
   π Are citations properly provided for all claims and evidence?
3. Reviewer Ethics
• Treat the manuscript and review process as confidential.
• Decline the review if you have a conflict of interest (financial, institutional, or personal).
• Provide objective, evidence-based, and constructive feedback to help authors improve their work.
• Avoid personal criticism of the authors.
4. Recommendation
Reviewers should choose one of the following recommendations:
• Accept (with or without minor revisions),
• Revisions Required (minor or major),
• Resubmit for Review (conditional acceptance),
• Reject (with clear reasons).