Science is the great antidote to the poison of enthusiasm and superstition - Adam Smith
Peer review process of scientific manuscripts and research grant applications is the bedrock of modern science. Failure to teach proper peer-review process is one of the greatest failings of institutions of higher learning. As a result, the process is misunderstood and misused by novices and veterans alike; those involved in the process are often confused as to how it should be conducted. In the absence of real checks and balances for the peer review process, peer reviewers receive little if any feedback and continue remaining unguided.
A most common misconception is the ill-begotten notion that the peer review process is intended for the benefit of the scientific community at large (some even say 'humanity as a whole'). In reality, the peer review process has a single purpose - to benefit YOU, the peer reviewer.
This guide is designed to help beginners as well as experienced reviewers in proper application of THE PEER REVIEW PROCESS.