Refer to the instructions to authors or similar information on the journal's website and follow the instructions exactly as requested. For example, see the checklist for manuscript submission from the American Psychological Association.
A key element to submitting a manuscript is the cover letter as that's your opportunity to engage the editor's attention in your work. See "Writing cover letters for scientific manuscripts" for good information and tips on how to craft a noteworthy cover letter. Please also note the links to sample cover letters in the "Learn more" box on the right-hand side of this page.
Once you have submitted your manuscript, your waiting process then begins. It isn't unusual to wait many weeks or months before hearing back from the editor, so don't be discouraged if you don't receive an immediate response. Also, once you hear from the editor, if your article has been accepted for submission, it's standard practice that minor or major edits will first be required by the editor, in a process called peer review. The peer-review process can be blind, double-blind, open or transparent. Look at the journal's 'About' page to find out which process is used for peer review. For more information on the peer review process, please see this FAQ.
This flowchart illustrates the typical process for a manuscript submitted to a peer-reviewed journal. This diagram represents the typical peer review process but should not be taken as a definitive approach used by every journal.
"Peer review" by Furman University is licensed under CC-BY-4.0.