Unacknowledged multiple submission is a breach of professional ethics. What to expect after submission . Many publications will notify the contributor by mail, email, or other means when the essay is received, and may indicate the approximate amount of time the decision will take. If contributors have not heard within three weeks, they may call to find out whether the mailing arrived. Most professional publications referee their contents.
Many publications review submissions in-house, then consult others before arriving at a decision.
Finding the right consultants, and finding them available, takes time, especially during holidays and vacations. It is usually in the contributor's best interest to allow a reputable journal time to make an informed judgment. Decisions can often be reached within three to four months of submission, except perhaps during summer vacation. If no response is forthcoming after four months, contributors may inquire about the status of their essays. Should the editor be unable to commit to a satisfactory timetable after four months, a contributor may notify the editor that the article is being submitted elsewhere.