How to review a submitted dermatology manuscript

Although much has been written about peer review science, practical advice on how to peer review articles is lacking, especially for dermatology. This article aims to provide a practical, stepwise framework to support new reviewers. Step 1 involves a rapid read of the manuscript to get a feel of the topic and to clarify the study question and design. Step 2 is a thorough, slower read, using an appropriate EQUATOR checklist. Step 3 is to organize your comments to the authors into major and minor points in a constructive way, focusing on clarity of question, internal validity, external validity and whether the interpretation fits with the results. Finally, make a recommendation to the editor, indicating whether the study is publishable with suitable revision or whether it contains some fatal flaws. We hope that this practical guide will encourage and help new reviewers to take on this rewarding and important scientific task for patient benefit.