Journal metrics can offer some insight into research quality and impact, and there are a range of metrics available using different data and calculation methods. Rankings lists created from journal metrics are one way of identifying and measuring the relative prestige of a journal within a particular field - e.g., a Q1 journal may carry more esteem within a research discipline.

Journal metrics may be used to: 

• Identify prestigious and influential journals in a particular discipline
• Identify highly ranked journals in which to publish 
• Help determine the allocation of research funding.

When selecting a journal in which to publish your research further considerations include:

• Is the journal indexed in discipline-focused databases or citation databases like Web of Science or Scopus?
• Is the journal included in the ERA 2023 submitted journal list?
• Is the journal peer-reviewed? Check using Ulrichsweb.
• What do the journal metrics and ranking lists indicate about the journal’s quality? For example, a journal ranked in the top-quartile (Q1) may be considered prestigious within that discipline.
• Do you need to consider Open Access options - e.g., for research funding requirements? See the Open Access guide for advice.

For more information on selecting quality journals for publishing consult the library guide Strategic publishing 

Below are some of the more commonly used journal metrics and the tools for locating them.