Preprints Repositories in the Social Sciences

Abstract

Introduction: The study examines policy initiatives aimed at enhancing preprints repositories within the realm of Social Sciences. Specifically, it comprehensively maps these initiatives, encompassing their policies and guidelines. Method: The chosen methodology involves exploratory and descriptive research, encompassing both empirical and reflective objectives. In terms of its nature, the approach is qualitative, concentrating on evaluating the adherence of these repositories to their policies. A total of 29 repositories are identified, and their inclusion or exclusion is determined by the classification prepared by the Coordination for the Improvement of Higher Education Personnel. Ultimately, six repositories are subjected to analysis: Advance, Emerging Research Information, OF Preprints, SciELO preprints, SocArxiv, and the Social Science Research Network. The analysis is conducted through the utilization of a checklist, which serves as a robus instrument for data collection.. This checklist is constructed in line with the recommendations put forth by Tijdink and colleagues (2020). Results: The study concludes by highlighting that policy initiatives geared towards optmizing preprint repositories tithin the realm of Social Sciences underscore specific recommendations applicable to both authors and repositories.  Conclusions: In the case of authors, there is a distinct emphasis on their responsibility in referencing both the content and structural aspects of the manuscript. Within repositories, the primary requirement pertains to guiding authors on archiving and disseminating alterations made to manuscripts upon subsequent publication in journals.