Anonymization Steps

Purpose and Necessity of Anonymization

The double-blind peer review system relies on keeping the identities of authors and reviewers confidential. The main objectives of this system are:

  • To prevent bias during the evaluation process,
  • To ensure that the manuscript is assessed solely based on its scholarly merit,
  • To uphold the principles of academic integrity, fairness, and impartiality.

Anonymity enables both authors and reviewers to provide feedback freely and strengthens the credibility of review reports. Therefore, it is essential that both parties carefully complete all required steps

Anonymization Steps for Authors

Removing Identifying Information

  • Delete all personal information such as author name, institutional affiliation, ORCID, and email address from the title page and main text.
  • Double-check the first page and document headers/footers.

Clearing File Properties and Metadata

  • Remove author and editor names from the Document Properties (metadata) section of your Word or PDF files.
  • Ensure that the file does not contain revision history or comments.

Neutralizing Reference Language

  • Avoid phrases like our previous study or our research when citing your own work.
  • Use neutral references such as Author or A previous study

Moving Identifying Statements to the Title Page

  • Include acknowledgments of funding, conflict of interest disclosures, and ethics approval statements only on the title page.
  • Do not include this information anywhere in the manuscript text.

Visuals and Supplementary Files

  • Remove any author-identifying information from image, table, or supplementary file names.
  • Avoid captions or references within the text that could reveal your identity.

Anonymization Steps for Reviewers

Respecting Confidentiality

  • Do not share any information you learn about the author’s identity while reviewing the manuscript.
  • Refrain from including guesses or comments suggesting who the author might be.

Constructive and Impartial Language

  • Base all feedback strictly on the scholarly content.
  • Avoid personal remarks or biased statements.

Conflict of Interest Disclosure

  • If you suspect you know the author’s identity or have a potential conflict of interest, immediately inform the editorial office.
  • If necessary, withdraw from the review process.

Submitting Revised Files and Ensuring Anonymity

If you upload a file as part of your review or revisions:

  • Remove your name, institution, ORCID, and email address from the document’s title page and content.
  • Delete author/editor names in the Document Properties (metadata) of Word or PDF files.
  • For Word files:
    • Go to Review > Protect > Protect Document > Remove personal information from this file on save.
    • Delete any tracked changes or comments (accept or reject all revisions).
  • Save the file with a neutral name such as Anonymous Reviewer Comments.