First Impression

First impressions are crucial for readers. Consider the beginning of the paper you are reviewing.

• Are the title and abstract accurate – in other words, do they reflect the study clearly and realistically? Are they concise and interesting?
• Is the introduction accessible and readable? Is the thesis (or hypothesis) immediately clear?
• Does the introduction sufficiently cover (and reference) the existing literature that acts as a foundation for the authors’ study?

If the title, abstract, or introduction could be improved, then detail your recommendations to the authors in your review comments.