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5 months ago in Scientific publishing By Manoj

What is the difference between a "preprint" and a "published paper," and are preprints cited and considered in tenure and promotion reviews?

I posted my manuscript on bioRxiv. My senior colleague says it "doesn't count" because it's not peer-reviewed. But I see many high-profile papers cited as preprints. How are they viewed in hiring and promotion? Should I list them on my CV separately?

All Answers (3 Answers In All)

By Walterwig Answered 2 months ago

A preprint is a public, timestamped draft shared for rapid dissemination and feedback; a published paper has undergone formal peer review and is typeset in a journal. Preprints absolutely "count" as scholarly activity, but they are weighted differently. In tenure and promotion, they demonstrate productivity and engagement with the open science movement, but they do not replace the validation of peer review. On your CV, list them in a separate "Preprints" or "Working Papers" section, with a clear link (e.g., bioRxiv DOI). They are increasingly cited in the literature (as "Author et al., bioRxiv, Year") and are considered seriously in grant applications to show preliminary data. Their primary value is establishing priority and fostering collaboration months before formal publication. In fields like physics and biology, they are now standard. Just ensure you update the citation once the peer-reviewed version is published.

Replied 2 months ago

By Manoj

Thank you, this was really helpful Walterwig.

By Radhya Kumari Answered 2 months ago

In practice, preprints are great for visibility and priority, but they don’t replace peer-reviewed publications. I’ve seen committees treat them as “work in progress” that complements, rather than substitutes for, published papers.

That said, if a preprint is already getting citations, media attention, or community uptake, it can strengthen your case by showing momentum. Context matters a lot field norms and institutional culture make a big difference.

Replied 2 months ago

By Manoj

Thanks a lot for sharing your experience Radhya.

By Junaid Answered 1 month ago

I think of preprints as a communication tool, not a credential. They’re increasingly cited and widely read, especially in fast-moving fields, but they don’t carry the same formal validation as a published paper.

For evaluations, the safest approach is to list preprints clearly labeled and separate from peer-reviewed publications. That transparency is usually appreciated and avoids confusion, while still highlighting your ongoing work.

Replied 1 month ago

By Manoj

Really helpful advice, thank you Junaid!

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