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Basic Formal Commonly tested

Proof of publication

noun

Pronunciation: /pruːf əv ˌpʌb.lɪˈkeɪ.ʃən/

An official document or certification issued by a journal confirming that an article has been published and providing bibliographic details including volume, issue, page numbers, and digital object identifier. This serves as verification for authors' academic records, institutional requirements, and promotion/tenure considerations.

Plain English

An official certificate or notice from a journal verifying that your article has been published with all its identifying information.

Etymology & History

Origin languageEnglish, Latin
Rootproof (evidence) + publicatio (making public)
First recorded use1950s
Usage frequencyCommon

Usage

"The department required proof of publication from all faculty before processing annual performance reviews."

Style guide notes: Capitalize when referring to formal document; use lowercase in general descriptive references.

Also known as

publication certificate publication confirmation publisher attestation

Contrasted with

rejection letter acceptance pending revision

Related Terms

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can authors obtain proof of publication?

Most journals provide electronic or printed certificates through their author portal, email notification, or formal publisher documentation upon request.

Is online publication notice acceptable as proof?

Yes, institutions typically accept emailed journal confirmation, DOI registration, or official publisher statements as valid proof of publication.

Why Test Candidates on This?

Important for understanding administrative processes and author requirements in academic publishing workflows.

Required skill level: Junior

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