A Guide for New Program Committee Members at Theoretical Computer Science Conferences

TL;DR

This paper provides a comprehensive guide for new program committee members at theoretical computer science conferences, explaining the review process and offering practical tips to navigate their roles effectively.

Contribution

It offers the first detailed overview of the PC process tailored for newcomers, enhancing their understanding and participation in conference paper selection.

Findings

Clarifies each phase of the paper-review process.

Provides practical guidelines for new PC members.

Improves the onboarding experience for first-time reviewers.

Abstract

In theoretical computer science, conferences play an important role in the scientific process. The decisions whether to accept or reject articles is taken by the program committee (PC) members. Serving on a PC for the first time can be a daunting experience. This guide will help new program-committee members to understand how the system works, and provide useful tips and guidelines. It discusses every phase of the paper-selection process, and the tasks associated to it.