preprint
nounPronunciation: /ˈpriːprɪnt/
A version of a scholarly paper distributed publicly before formal peer review and publication in a journal.
Full Definition
A preprint is a complete draft of a research paper that authors make publicly available through dedicated servers or repositories prior to submission to a peer-reviewed journal or during the review process. This practice allows for rapid dissemination of research findings, enables early feedback from the scientific community, and establishes priority for discoveries. Preprints are typically hosted on discipline-specific servers and may undergo community-driven review processes. While not formally peer-reviewed, preprints often receive post-publication peer review through comments and citations, contributing to open science initiatives and accelerating knowledge transfer.
Plain English
A research paper that scientists share online before it goes through the official review process, allowing others to read and comment on the work early.
In Editorial Context
Early-stage manuscripts that journal editors must consider in relation to their publication policies, simultaneous submission guidelines, and decisions about whether previously posted preprints remain eligible for formal publication.
Etymology & History
Originated in physics and mathematics as a way to share research quickly in fast-moving fields, predating the internet era when physical copies were mailed to colleagues.
Originally physical documents circulated among small research communities but transformed into global digital repositories accessible to anyone with internet access.
Usage
"The editorial board established a clear preprint policy stating that prior posting on recognized servers would not disqualify manuscripts from consideration for publication."
Usage note: Can function as both noun ('a preprint') and adjective ('preprint version'); distinguish from 'postprint' which refers to the accepted manuscript after peer review
Context: academic publishing, open science, research dissemination
Region: international
Also known as
Contrasted with
Don't confuse with
postprint refers to the version after peer review but before final formatting, while preprint precedes peer review entirely