10.

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		a self-addressed postcard to the manuscript, so that the editor can acknowledge receipt. If you do not receive an acknowledgment in 2 weeks, call or write the editorial office to verify that your manuscript was indeed received. I know of one author whose manuscript was lost in the mail, and it was not until 9 months later that the problem was brought to light by his meek inquiry as to whether the reviewers had reached a decision about the manuscript.

		The mails being what they are, and busy editors and reviewers being what they are, do not be concerned if you do not receive a decision within one month after submission of the manuscript. Most journal editors, at least the good ones, try to reach a decision within 4 to 6 weeks or, if there is to be further delay for some reason, provide some explanation to the author. If you have had no word about the disposition of your manuscript after 6 weeks have elapsed, it is not at all inappropriate to send a courteous inquiry to the editor. If no reply is received and the elapsed time becomes 2 months, a personal phone call may not be out of place.