What is the H-index and why is it important for researchers?

What is the H-index and why is it important for researchers?

The H-index is a metric that measures both the productivity and citation impact of a researcher's publications. It's important because it helps evaluate a researcher's influence in their field.

How is the H-index calculated?

The H-index is calculated based on the number of papers (h) that have received at least h citations. For example, an H-index of 10 means the researcher has 10 papers cited at least 10 times each.

What are the limitations of the H-index?

Some limitations include its inability to account for the number of authors on a paper, the age of publications, and it doesn't reflect the quality of citations.

Can the H-index be manipulated?

Yes, it can be manipulated through practices like self-citation or publishing in predatory journals, which can inflate the index without genuine impact.

What is a good H-index score for a researcher?

A good H-index varies by field and career stage, but generally, higher scores indicate greater impact. For early-career researchers, an H-index of 5-10 might be considered good.