For any author who has submitted their research to a journal, the period after submission can be filled with anticipation and anxiety. Refreshing the submission portal and seeing the status stuck on "With Editor" for weeks on end is a common experience. But what is actually happening behind the scenes, and how long should this stage typically last?

This guide demystifies the "With Editor" status, explains the factors that influence its duration, and provides clear advice on what you should do while you wait.

What "With Editor" Actually Means

When your manuscript status changes to "With Editor," it means your paper has successfully passed the initial administrative check (for formatting, completeness, etc.) and has been assigned to a specific academic editor. This is often an Associate Editor who is an expert in your field. This is an active and crucial stage where a key decision about your paper's future is made.

Behind the Scenes: What is the Editor Doing?

The duration of the "With Editor" stage is variable because the editor is performing two critical tasks:

1. Initial Appraisal: The editor conducts a preliminary assessment of your manuscript to determine if it's a good fit for the journal. They evaluate its novelty, the significance of its findings, and whether it aligns with the journal's scope. If the paper is deemed unsuitable or not impactful enough, the editor may issue a "desk rejection" at this point.

2. Finding and Inviting Peer Reviewers: If the paper passes the initial appraisal, the editor then begins the most time-consuming task: identifying and securing suitable peer reviewers. This process can be a major bottleneck because:

   • Finding Experts: The editor must find qualified experts whose specific knowledge matches your paper's topic.

   • Reviewer Availability: Good reviewers are often busy academics who may decline invitations due to their own commitments.

   • Multiple Invitations: An editor may have to send out five, ten, or even more invitations to secure the required two or three reviewers.

The status will only change to "Under Review" after a sufficient number of experts have accepted the invitation to review your manuscript.

How Long Should "With Editor" Take? A Detailed Timeline

While there is no fixed rule, you can use the following timeline as a general guide:

• The Ideal Wait (1-2 Weeks): This is a best-case scenario where the editor is familiar with the topic and quickly finds available reviewers.

• The Normal Range (2-6 Weeks): This is the most common timeframe. It provides the editor with enough time to properly assess the manuscript and go through the process of inviting reviewers.

• The Long-but-Acceptable Wait (6-12 Weeks / 1.5-3 Months): While long, this is not necessarily a cause for alarm. It usually indicates that the editor is having difficulty finding willing and available reviewers, which is common in highly specialized or niche fields.

• When to Be Concerned (3+ Months): If the status has not changed after three months, it is reasonable to consider it an abnormally long time. At this point, a polite inquiry is appropriate.

A Note on Timing (September 2025): Considering the current time of year, many academics in the Northern Hemisphere are just beginning a new semester. Editors and potential reviewers are often busy with teaching, administrative duties, and grant deadlines, which can lead to slower processing times.

What Should You Do? A Guide for Authors

1. Patience is Key: The most important virtue during this stage is patience. Frequent emails to the editor can be counterproductive.

2. Check the Journal's Average Times: Many journals publish their average time from submission to first decision on their website. Check this information to see if your wait time is within the normal range for that specific journal.

3. Know When and How to Inquire: If your paper has been "With Editor" for over three months, or significantly longer than the journal's stated average, a polite inquiry is acceptable.

How to Write a Professional Inquiry Email:

• Be Polite and Concise: Keep your email short and professional.

• Include Your Manuscript ID: This is essential for the editor to quickly locate your submission.

• Do Not Be Demanding: Frame your email as a gentle inquiry, not a demand for action.

Email Template:

Subject: Inquiry about manuscript status: [Your Manuscript ID]

Dear [Editor's Name or "Editorial Office"],

I hope this email finds you well.

I am writing to politely inquire about the status of my manuscript, "[Your Manuscript Title]" (ID: [Your Manuscript ID]), which I submitted to [Journal Name] on [Date of Submission].

I see in the submission system that its status has been "With Editor" for some time. I understand you have a very busy schedule, but I would be grateful for any update you could provide.

Thank you for your time and for your service to the journal.

Sincerely,

[Your Name] [Your Affiliation]

Conclusion:

The "With Editor" status is an active and often lengthy stage in the peer-review process. Understanding the work being done behind the scenes can help alleviate anxiety. While patience is essential, knowing when and how to make a polite inquiry can provide clarity and peace of mind during the long wait for a decision.