I’m trying to publish a paper on some qualitative research I performed in my second year of med school. The research certainly had its flaws but, in the end, provided some valuable insights. Getting qualitative research published is tricky, and all the rejection I’ve received in my quest has built character.
Consider this final quote from my most recent reviewer:
The above are just a few random thoughts rather than a detailed assessment of this manuscript as here is no need to put salt on every slug in sight. Nonetheless, I fail to see how this manuscript can be of interest to people with a genuine understanding of qualitative research or to clinicians who value evidence above unsubstantiated opinion.
For the record, the second reviewer thought the paper should be accepted for publication without modification. Shoot.
anna in med school 
When I was in grad school, one of my lab members received a review of a very mathematical paper that had been submitted to a very mathematical journal. It said, its entirety, and I quote, “I didn’t understand this paper so I didn’t read it.” And the editor SENT IT BACK like that! Some days you really have to wonder.
P.S. Your MS was totally reviewed by someone’s snotty first-year grad student or something.
Wow! That review is ridiculous! And thank you for your note–it made me chuckle and made me feel better 🙂
Wow. What a harsh comment! I’m glad you had a good review too. Good luck – I’d like to read your work when it’s published. Let us know!
Aw, thank you so much! And I will absolutely keep you posted!
yowch! I find the review process brutal fwiw. add to that the completely random element (as so poignantly illustrated in the two reviews you received), and it’s just downright disheartening. Grant review process is similar. Good luck with resubmission or submitting elsewhere. You will find your paper a home!
Hey there! Thank you! I agree, completely disheartening. I have never had to write a grant before (though hope/expect to at some point during my career), but I hear it can be incredibly brutal. Many thanks for the well wishes and encouragement!