Associate editors are typically given minimal guidance when they are hired by editors-in-chief of scientific journals. Ten rules (or guidelines) are presented for associate editors based on the author’s experience as an associate editor for three evolutionary journals. First, accept invitations to edit manuscripts that are outside your comfort zone. Second, turn-around time is important. Third, read the manuscript before sending it out for review. Fourth, select suitable reviewers. Fifth, provide authors guidance on how to address the reviews. Sixth, help graduate students balance their manuscripts. Seventh, you are not a co-author on the manuscript. Eighth, when in doubt, choose the more severe recommendation. Ninth, sign and date your recommendation. Tenth, return unsatisfactory revisions to the authors. Each of these ten rules includes a description of the author’s relevant personal experience as well as detailed guidance on how to implement the rule.

中文翻译：

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副主编的十条规则

当副主编被科学期刊的主编聘用时，他们通常只得到最少的指导。根据作者作为三个进化期刊副主编的经验，为副主编提供了 10 条规则（或指南）。首先，接受编辑超出您舒适区的手稿的邀请。其次，周转时间很重要。第三，在送审前阅读手稿。第四，选择合适的审稿人。第五，为作者提供如何处理评论的指导。第六，帮助研究生平衡手稿。第七，您不是手稿的合著者。第八，当有疑问时，选择更严厉的建议。第九，在你的推荐信上签名并注明日期。第十，将不满意​​的修改返回给作者。