Preprints are versions of scholarly papers that precede formal peer review and publication in a scholarly or scientific journal. They are typically shared on public servers to facilitate early dissemination and feedback from the research community.
Preprints provide the opportunity for researchers to more immediately share their work and to encourage feedback. arXiv have emerged as a major platform for sharing research in 1990. Researchers can self-archive their preprints on these services and share them with the wider world. Preprints provide a range of advantages including:
Crucially, posting a Preprint does not usually prevent you from publishing in peer reviewed journals.
Most journals allow posting of preprints but there are some exceptions therefore we recommend checking the policy of your target journal carefully.
This does not mean however that publishers will allow the final published version to be held on Preprint services or other repositories.
The Sherpa Romeo website provides a guide to publisher copyright policies & self-archiving and you can use this to check the journal policies.
Preprints are not held within the Pure repository at Queens. Do contact the Open Research Team if you cannot find a suitable preprint server for your preprint, and we can advise.
How to Prepare a Preprint
Submitting a Preprint
After Submission
A preprint server is an online platform where researchers can upload and share their manuscripts before they undergo formal peer review and publication in a scientific journal.
This early dissemination of research accelerates the pace of scientific discovery, fosters collaboration, and allows for immediate feedback from peers.
Preprints are an excellent way to share your research early and receive valuable input from the scientific community.
For a comprehensive list of preprint servers, including their disciplinary scope and policies, visit the ASAPbio Preprint server directory.
Generic preprint servers
Discipline-specific preprint servers
Best Practice
By following these best practices, you can maximize the benefits of posting a preprint while minimizing potential risks.
Happy sharing!
Funders
Certain funding organizations advocate for the dissemination of preprints. Researchers are advised to review the policies of these organizations to understand any specific requirements regarding preprints. Notably, the Medical Research Council (MRC) and the Wellcome Trust encourage the sharing of preprints. For further information on their policies, please refer to the links provided below.
Benefits of Preprints
Risks of Preprints
Despite these risks, many researchers find preprints valuable for rapid dissemination and early feedback. It's important to weigh the benefits and risks based on your specific situation.
Additional links to preprint directories and informational resources will be provided in this section. The Open Research team will update this information regularly.
Should you have any questions or require further information about preprints, please do not hesitate to contact the Open Research Team.