How does open access impact citation rates?

What is open access and how does it work?

Open access refers to the practice of providing unrestricted access to research outputs, such as journal articles, online. It allows anyone to read, download, and share research without subscription fees.

How does open access affect citation rates for research papers?

Research shows that open access articles tend to have higher citation rates compared to those behind paywalls. This is likely due to increased visibility and accessibility.

Are there any studies that support this claim?

Yes, several studies have demonstrated that open access articles receive more citations. For instance, a study published in PLOS Biology found that open access articles are cited 18% more than subscription-based articles.

What are the potential downsides of open access?

Some downsides include the potential for predatory journals that charge authors without providing proper peer review, and the financial burden on researchers to pay publication fees.