Understanding and using journal metrics Journal metrics are valuable tools for readers and authors, but they should not be used in isolation. Instead, consider multiple metrics, along with other qualitative factors like a journal's aims, scope, readership, and past content review. Single articles should be assessed on their merits, not based on the metrics of the journal they were published in. Usage: The usage and acceptance rate data are updated every six months while speed data is updated every three months. Citation metrics are updated mid-year. Speed/acceptance From submission to first decision: the average (median) number of days for a manuscript submitted to the journal to receive a first decision. Based on manuscripts receiving a first decision in the last two weeks From submission to first post-review decision: the average (median) number of days for a manuscript submitted to the journal to receive a first decision if it is sent out for peer review based on manuscripts receiving a post-review first decision in the last two weeks. From acceptance to online publication: the average (median) number of days from acceptance of a manuscript to online publication of the Version of Record based on articles published in the last six months. Acceptance rate: articles accepted for publication by the journal in the previous calendar year as percentage of all papers receiving a final decision. For more details on the data above, please read the Author Services guide to understanding journal metrics.