Dealing with reviewers - addendum

As important as what you write in response to what you perceive as unreasonable and pedantic reviewer comments is what you leave out. Make sure to scour your response letter for four-letter words, and pay particular attention to the final phrase before the standard finale which typically goes a little something like this:

"Sincerely,
Your Name Here".

Avoid ending that final sentence with "..and the horse you rode in on", "..or brake for you if you cross the road" or similar phrases. In general, it's better to write a separate letter if you feel the need to involve the reviewer's mother in any way, shape or form as part of your reply.