What Is a Preprint?
A preprint is a manuscript shared publicly before peer review, typically on an open-access server. The practice became mainstream during COVID-19 and has since transformed scientific communication.
Major Preprint Servers
- bioRxiv / medRxiv: Biology and medicine
- arXiv: Physics, mathematics, computer science
- SSRN: Social sciences and law
Advantages
- Establishes priority of discovery immediately
- Receives community feedback before formal peer review
- DOI assigned — citable immediately
Risks and Considerations
- Unreviewed findings may be misinterpreted
- Some journals prohibit prior posting — always check
- Errors in a preprint remain visible even after correction
Checking Journal Policy
Sherpa/Romeo (sherpa.ac.uk/romeo) lists journal policies on preprint posting. Always check before submitting.