Can Preprints Be Cited?

Most journals allow citation of preprints in the reference list of the article in question, similar to journal articles. The NIH has recommended a preprint citation format that makes clear the status of the work as a preprint and includes its DOI.

Do preprints count as publications?

No, preprints are not peer-reviewed publications.

Are preprints copyrighted?

Licensing implications. Authors should not assign copyright during the preprint process; authors should retain copyright in their work when posting to a preprint server. Preferably, authors should only grant “no re-use” licenses to their preprints.