Here is an example email template you can use as a guide: Subject: Manuscript Status Inquiry - title of your manuscript Dear Editor Name, I hope this email finds you GOOD. I am writing to, A change in status from AE Assigned to AE Review means that the manuscript has been picked up by AE for review. The AE will now review the manuscript to check things like its fit with the scope of the journal, quality of writing, and even novelty of the study. Based on these factors, the AE will decide: What we can say is that since this is a Springer journal, it will likely take some time due to the number of submissions that Springer journals receive usually. Also note that Under Review means that the internal team has reviewed the manuscript and decided to send it for peer review. This also takes time, as several internal controls are also required. On the contrary, unjustifiably lengthy peer review delays the dissemination of influential reports and leads to ethical misconduct, such as plagiarism of a manuscript under review. With the proliferation of open access journals dependent on article processing fees, an unjustified and short review may indicate a lack of quality. The Decision Started status indicates that the peer review process for your manuscript has been completed and the article is now in the hands of the editor. The editor is probably reviewing the reviews to make a decision. I hope you will be informed of the decision soon. You will also find this ebook useful: