What does “in press” mean in a citation?
In academic and scholarly publications, the term “in press” holds significant importance, particularly when it comes to citing research articles. Understanding what “in press” means in a citation is crucial for researchers, students, and professionals to accurately reference their sources and maintain the integrity of scholarly work. This article aims to provide a comprehensive explanation of the term “in press” and its implications in the context of citations.
The term “in press” refers to a publication that has been accepted for publication by a journal but has not yet been assigned a specific publication date or released to the public. It signifies that the article has successfully undergone the peer-review process and is awaiting final formatting, typesetting, and publication. Essentially, an article is considered “in press” when it is in the final stages of production before it is officially published.
When citing an article that is “in press,” it is important to note that the publication date is not yet available. As a result, researchers often include the acceptance date or the expected publication date in the citation. This information helps readers understand the timing of the research and its availability in the academic community.
To cite an article that is “in press,” follow these guidelines:
1. Start with the author’s name(s), followed by the article title.
2. Include the journal name, volume, and issue number (if available).
3. Mention the year of acceptance or the expected publication date.
4. Add the phrase “in press” to indicate that the article has been accepted but not yet published.
For example:
Smith, J., & Johnson, L. (2022). The impact of climate change on coastal ecosystems. Journal of Environmental Science, in press.
It is worth noting that the term “in press” is not limited to journal articles. It can also be used to describe books, conference proceedings, or other scholarly publications that are in the final stages of production.
Understanding the concept of “in press” in citations is essential for maintaining academic integrity and providing accurate references. By following the proper citation format and including relevant information, researchers can ensure that their work is properly attributed and accessible to the broader academic community.
