Preprint Servers’ Policies, Submission Requirements, and Transparency in Reporting and Research Integrity Recommendations

In light of the recent increase in the number of preprints and preprints servers, as well as calls for transparent reporting of research, we conducted a cross-sectional analysis of 57 preprint servers’ websites for information on their policies, submission requirements, and transparency in reporting and research integrity recommendations. All servers specified their scope, and a large majority mentioned they apply moderation or screening procedures (n=47, 82%). Out of 18 analysed topics on transparency in reporting and research integrity, the servers addressed a median of 1 (IQR 1 to 3), most commonly data sharing (n=22, 39%), plagiarism (n=15, 26%) and the use of ORCID iD (n=14, 25%). Preprint servers could do more to raise awareness and encourage or require transparent reporting of research and adherence to research integrity standards. In doing so they may improve the quality and trust in the scholarly information exchange.