The choice of a new journal’s title should ideally link to its scope, aims and focus, by referencing the subject discipline of the journal (see Scope, aims and focus).

Deciding on a title

Before deciding on a title, it is vital to search the ISSN Portal (International Standard Serial Number Portal – the official journals registration organisation). A journal’s title should not be a duplicate of, or too similar to, an existing title: this helps avoid confusion or an impression of deliberately trying to become associated with an established journal. A tentative title should also be entered into search engines to ensure the option is unique.

Publishers should aim to make journal titles distinctive and memorable, while still keeping them as brief as possible. Essential keywords that help identify the journal’s scope, aims or focus should be at the beginning of the title. Keywords help readers understand the journal’s subject(s) and enhance its discoverability when people search for these keywords online.

Once the journal title has been chosen, tested and checked, it should be registered via the ISSN National Centre of the country where you wish to register the journal.

What to avoid

Although using acronyms may be useful for internal purposes, we recommend not including any in the title unless this is essential, for example, to identify an official organisational publication.

Changing a journal title after publication has started is highly inadvisable. The title should be carefully chosen so that it will keep its utility over time. Note that journals need to register for a new ISSN if the title or language is changed, and you may have to resubmit applications for existing indexing arrangements.

It is best to avoid starting the title with “The International Journal of…” as this has unfortunately become widely associated with deceptive or fake journals (sometimes known as ‘predatory’ journals).