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Publishing Open Access Journal Articles

Publishing open access (OA) is a powerful way to increase the reach, visibility, and impact of your research. Like all scholarly publishing, selecting where and how to publish your article involves careful consideration of your goals, your audience, and the publishing options available to you.

This section outlines the key factors, tools, and best practices for publishing open access journal articles—so you can make informed decisions that align with your academic priorities and institutional or funder requirements.

Key Factors to Consider

When choosing and publishing Open Access journal articles, consider the following factors:

  • Audience: Who is your intended reader? OA ensures that anyone—researchers, policymakers, educators, or the public—can access your research without a subscription.
  • Journal's scope & purpose: Does the journal accept articles in your field? Make sure the journal’s mission, editorial board, and readership align with your research topic.
  • Journal's performance: Consider the journal’s standing in your discipline. Use metrics like Impact Factor or CiteScore, but also evaluate the transparency of the peer review process and editorial practices.
  • Reviewing process: Is it a peer-reviewed journal?  If so, what type of peer review does it use—single-blind, double-blind, or open review?
  • Publishing cycle: How quickly does the journal move from submission to publication? OA journals often aim for rapid publication, but quality peer review still takes time.
  • Open Access Model & Fees: Is it Gold, Diamond, or Hybrid OA? Understand the publication model and any Article Processing Charges (APCs) that may apply.
  • Copyright & Licensing: What rights do you retain as the author? Many OA journals allow you to keep your copyright and publish under a Creative Commons license (e.g., CC BY).
  • Indexing & Discoverability: Is the journal indexed in trusted databases (e.g., PubMed, Scopus, DOAJ)? This affects how easily others can find and cite your work.
  • Predatory Journal Warning Signs: Avoid journals that lack peer review, have unclear fees, or are not listed in reputable directories. When in doubt, consult a librarian or check the Directory of Open Access Journals (DOAJ).