Advantages to Writing Shorter Articles Weather and Forecasting

As the incoming Chief Editor of Weather and Forecasting (WAF), the other editors and I encourage authors to consider shorter article submissions, as appropriate (https://www.ametsoc.org/ams/index.cfm/publications/journals/weather-and-forecasting/). There are at least five reasons we have for this, but you may think of more. First, because WAF page charges are $120 per page, shorter articles will have lower page charges, reducing the cost to research budgets and funding agencies. Second, in our fast-paced, technology-driven world, many do not have the time—nor necessarily want to take the time—to read long articles. Third, shorter articles put less burden on the selfless volunteer reviewers; longer articles put more strain on this critical resource. Fourth, authors who might be intimidated by the “supposed requirement” to write long articles would be more likely to publish a shorter article in WAF. And fifth, the publication process could be beneficially shortened, which would aid students and early-career professionals trying to establish their publishing credentials, as well as those in professions where time commitments may not permit traditional manuscript lengths.