Major Revision vs Minor Revision
A minor revision decision means the editor considers the paper basically acceptable after small changes (for example clarification, added references, wording). A major revision means the paper has potential but needs substantial changes (for example new analyses, restructuring or additional data) and will usually be re-reviewed. Neither is a promise of acceptance.
Comparison
| Feature | Minor revision | Major revision |
|---|---|---|
| Meaning | Small changes needed | Substantial changes needed |
| Typical requests | Clarify methods, edit text, add references | New analyses, restructure, address bias, add data |
| Re-review | May be checked by the editor only | Often re-reviewed by reviewers |
| Time to revise | Days to a few weeks | Weeks to months |
| Outcome | Acceptance often follows | Acceptance depends on the quality of the response |
How to plan
- Make a table of all requested changes and categorise them by effort.
- Start with the changes that affect the core of the paper (analysis, interpretation).
- Contact the editor if a request is not feasible (for example collecting new data) and propose an alternative.
- Respect the deadline, or ask for a justified extension.
- Respond point by point (see How to Respond to Peer Reviewer Comments).
Illustrative example
Invented for teaching. Reviewers ask for adjustment for comorbidity and a sensitivity analysis excluding patients with missing data. The authors run both, add them to the Results, and update the abstract. The paper is accepted after one round of major revision.
Common pitfalls
- Treating major revision as a rejection, or minor revision as acceptance.
- Making changes without explaining them.
Key takeaways
- Both mean "not yet", but major revision requires substantial work.
- A careful, point-by-point response matters.
References and further reading
Related reading
This page is general educational information about research methods. It is not medical, legal or regulatory advice; follow your institution's ethics board and your target journal's instructions.