Open Access: Evaluate

Predatory journals are "entities that prioritize self-interest at the expense of scholarship and are characterized by false or misleading information, deviation from best editorial and publication practices, a lack of transparency, and/or the use of aggressive and indiscriminate solicitation practices" (Grudniewicz et al).

When evaluating an OA work, consider the following checklist:

• Is the grammar and spelling correct?
• Does the URL appear unique and legitimate?
• Does the website look professional?
• Is the subject of the published articles topically related and within the scope of the journal?
• Is there a verifiable physical address and phone number?
• Can you search content without registering?
• Has the journal existed for longer than three years and does it have archives back to the date it began publishing?
• If a journal impact factor is provided, can it be verified?
• Is there a named editorial board, and can you verify their backgrounds/publications?
• Are there detailed instructions for the authors?
• Is publication presented as a possibility rather than a guarantee?
• Is the publication schedule clear and consistent?
• Does the site provide a submission portal?

You can also check whether the journal is included in a whitelist such as DOAJ, or use a tool such as Think. Check. Submit.