The choice of a scientific journal for publication is an important stage in a researcher’s scientific activity. The visibility of the research in the international environment, the researcher’s career growth, and their reputation depend on its quality. However, not all researchers understand the features of quartiles, which causes difficulties when choosing an appropriate journal. What are the quartiles of a scientific journal and what are their features? Which journal quartile should be chosen for a first publication? We will discuss this in our article.
What are Q1, Q2, Q3, Q4?
Scientific journal quartile (Quartile) is an indicator that reflects the position of a journal in the list of the best publications within a subject category. In scientometric databases such as Scopus and Web of Science (WoS), journals are classified into groups called quartiles.
In Scopus, a journal quartile is calculated on the basis of the SCImago Journal Rank (SJR) indicator, and in Web of Science on the basis of the Journal Impact Factor (JIF) metric. On the basis of these indicators, journals are divided into four groups (quartiles):
- Q1 (first quartile): the most authoritative high-ranking journals, which are included in the top 25% of the list of the best scientific journals in their field
- Q2 (second quartile): high-quality journals that occupy positions from 25% to 50% in the overall ranking of scientific journals
- Q3 (third quartile): mid-level journals with moderate citation and scientific impact indicators in their field
- Q4 (fourth quartile): new or less influential scientific journals that belong to the bottom 25% of the list of the best journals
Which journal quartile is better to choose for publication?
The choice of a scientific journal by quartile depends on several factors, including the author’s level of preparation, the subject matter of the work, the purpose of the publication, and the requirements of a higher education institution, organisation, and so on.
For a first research publication in Scopus or Web of Science, we recommend choosing publication in Q3 or Q4 journals. Publication times in such journals are often shorter than in first- and second-quartile journals (Q1 and Q2). Third- and fourth-quartile journals impose less stringent requirements on materials, which increases the chances of successful publication.
For young researchers, this has a particular advantage, as they are only beginning their publication activity in journals of the international level. Publication in Q3 or Q4 journals will give researchers the opportunity to understand how the peer-review process in journals of this level takes place, how communication with the editorial office takes place, and so on.
If you are already an experienced researcher and wish to strengthen your reputation in the scientific community, as well as increase the number of academic achievements, we recommend choosing Q1 and Q2 journals. They are distinguished by a more rigorous peer-review and materials selection process, and competition for publication is high. However, having a publication in such journals will confirm the high quality of the research, will allow you to expand your readership, and will help to strengthen the trust of the scientific community.
The correct choice of journal for successful publication is an extremely important aspect that positively influences a researcher’s career development and will help to present research results effectively.
Need help with the publication of a scientific article? Looking for a journal for publication (Q1-Q4)? Contact Scientific Publications. Our specialists will select a journal in Scopus or Web of Science that best matches your scientific goals and the subject matter of your work. We will also format your research in compliance with the necessary requirements and will support you at all stages of the publication process. Fill in the form below, and our manager will contact you shortly. Together – towards a successful publication!
