GRANDE DAME LITERARY

Has someone else read your work?
Yes. Progress to #2.                             No, have someone else take a look.
We all think we've written something marvelous. 

Did the person give you constructive feedback or was it a friend being nice?
Yes, constructive. Progress to #3.       No, it was someone being polite.
Friends are great, but a fellow experienced writer or editor will tell you what is missing.

Are you willing to make changes and deletions?
Yes. Progress to #4.                            No, ask yourself why not.
Read through the suggestions and comments, take a break, and then decide what changes you can make that will enhance the reader's experience. 

Did you check for typos and adhere to the journal's formatting? 

Yes, you are ready to submit.               No, means it needs a last look.
Formatting mistakes and too many typos can disqualify your work.