IJGESR screens submissions for originality and may use similarity-detection tools as part of editorial assessment.
A similarity percentage alone does not determine plagiarism. Reports must be interpreted by an editor because legitimate quotations, references, standard terminology and methodological descriptions may contribute to similarity.
The journal assesses whether text, ideas, data, figures, maps or other material have been reproduced without appropriate acknowledgement.
Plagiarism, misleading paraphrasing, unattributed reproduction, fabricated references and substantial duplicate publication may result in rejection and, where necessary, further investigation. Authors remain responsible for the originality and accuracy of their work.
UGC Similarity Levels
| UGC level | Similarity after applicable exclusions | UGC classification |
|---|---|---|
| Level 0 | Up to 10% | Minor similarities; no UGC penalty |
| Level 1 | Above 10% to 40% | Plagiarism Level 1 |
| Level 2 | Above 40% to 60% | Plagiarism Level 2 |
| Level 3 | Above 60% | Plagiarism Level 3 |
IJGESR Editorial Action
| Finding | Possible editorial action |
|---|---|
| Level 0 (up to 10%) | The manuscript may proceed if matched text is properly attributed and no substantive plagiarism is found. Corrections may still be required. |
| Level 1 (above 10% to 40%) | The manuscript will normally be returned for substantial correction or may be rejected. It should not proceed until the editor is satisfied that the integrity concern has been resolved. |
| Level 2 (above 40% to 60%) | The manuscript will normally be rejected or withdrawn from review. If already published, a formal investigation may lead to correction, expression of concern or retraction as appropriate. |
| Level 3 (above 60%) | The manuscript will normally be rejected. Published content may be retracted, and the journal may contact the author’s institution or another affected publisher where evidence and due process justify doing so. |
