Are you familiar with the terms “corresponding author” and “first author,” but unsure of their exact meanings?
This is a common question, especially early in a researcher’s career, but it’s easy to clarify: fundamentally, the corresponding author manages the manuscript submission process for publication, while the first author is the one who conducts the research and writes the manuscript.
The order of authors can be arranged in any way that best suits the research group, but submissions must be made by the corresponding author.
If you are not part of a research group and are publishing your own paper independently, you will likely be both the corresponding and first author at the same time.
Corresponding Author
In academic publishing, the corresponding author is crucial for facilitating communication among co-authors, editors, and reviewers, while ensuring the manuscript’s accuracy and completeness. This article delves into frequently asked questions regarding the role and importance of the corresponding author.
What is the Role of a Corresponding Author?
The corresponding author oversees crucial aspects throughout a study’s dissemination, both pre- and post-publication. If you’re new to this role, consider these 6 essential tips for success:
- Ensure deadlines are met.
- Prepare a submission-ready manuscript.
- Compile a comprehensive submission package.
- Verify all author details for accuracy.
- Uphold ethical practices.
- Take the lead on open access initiatives.
In essence, the corresponding author plays a vital role in bringing research to the public eye. Success hinges on delivering high-quality content, which is crucial for maintaining the researchers’ reputation among peers and broader audiences.
How Should a Paper Cite Its Corresponding Author?
To identify the corresponding author in a paper, it is common to use an asterisk symbol (*). The corresponding author’s name should be accompanied by this asterisk symbol on the title page of the article. Additionally, the asterisk is repeated next to the corresponding author’s contact information.
Rights of a Corresponding Author
- Intellectual Property: The corresponding author retains rights to the manuscript’s intellectual property, controlling its use and dissemination.
- Authorship: The corresponding author can decide who qualifies as an author based on their contributions to the research.
- Attribution: The corresponding author receives proper credit for their contributions, including authorship and citation.
- Corrections and Retractions: The corresponding author can request corrections or retractions if errors are found.
- Publication: The corresponding author approves the final manuscript version and ensures timely publication.
- Copyright: The corresponding author decides on reproduction and distribution permissions for the published manuscript.
- Access to Manuscript: The corresponding author can distribute copies to co-authors and interested parties.
- Article Metrics: The corresponding author can request data on article usage, citations, and impact.
- Rejection Appeal: The corresponding author can appeal a rejection decision, following journal guidelines.
- Authorship Order: The corresponding author determines author order based on each contributor’s role.
- Authorship Changes: The corresponding author may request changes to authorship based on journal policies.
- Copyright Transfer: The corresponding author might transfer manuscript copyright to the journal or publisher.
What Are the responsibilities of the Corresponding Author?
Manuscript Preparation: Ensuring the manuscript is accurate, complete, and meets journal guidelines.
Co-Author Communication: Keeping co-authors informed and addressing their concerns.
Correspondence: Handling communication with the journal or conference throughout the review and publication process, addressing queries and ensuring timely revisions.
Ethical Conduct: Ensuring the manuscript adheres to ethical standards in research methods, data use, and analysis.
Funding and Conflict of Interest Disclosure: Disclosing research funding sources and any conflicts of interest that could impact the research.
Data Availability: Ensuring the availability of research data for review and replication by other researchers.
Co-Authorship Disputes: Resolving disputes among co-authors related to authorship or contributions.
Compliance with Journal Policies: Ensuring the manuscript complies with journal guidelines on formatting, word count, and submission deadlines.
Manuscript Revision: Overseeing revisions based on reviewer and editor feedback.
Post-Publication Communication: Addressing inquiries and comments about the manuscript after publication, such as requests for additional information or clarification.
What are the advantages a Corresponding Author ?
Serving as the corresponding author offers advantages such as being the primary contact throughout the journal submission and publication process, gaining recognition in your field, building relationships with editors and peers, and actively participating in the publication journey.
Can Two Authors Be Corresponding Authors?
Yes, it is possible for two authors to serve as corresponding authors, depending on the journal’s policies. Some journals allow multiple corresponding authors, while others restrict it to one. It’s important to review the specific guidelines of the journal you are submitting to and clearly outline each corresponding author’s roles, responsibilities, and contact information in the paper.