A preprint is a version of a manuscript posted to an open archive (arXiv, bioRxiv, SSRN, an institutional repository, etc.) before or during journal peer review. Goals include speed, a public timestamp, feedback, and sometimes funder open-science expectations. A preprint is not a peer-reviewed article; readers should treat it accordingly.
Many journals allow preprints; some set embargo or version rules. Check the target journal’s preprint policy (e.g. via Sherpa Romeo) before posting. Preprints can receive DOIs; the accepted journal version often gets a separate DOI. State which version you cite.
Preprint culture in Turkey varies by field—strong in physics/math via arXiv, newer in some social sciences. In appointment files, substituting a preprint for a “published article” is usually unacceptable—follow the written rule. Preprints still help share early results in project reports.
Ethics: do not plagiarize others’ preprints or claim false priority. Do not confuse legitimate archives with predatory “preprint journals.” Peer review and open access complete the picture. Green OA often archives post-acceptance versions; preprints come earlier.
Before paying an APC, lock invoice, waivers, and institutional deals in writing—surprise invoices are OA’s most common operational pain. Also confirm the license (e.g. CC BY) does not conflict with thesis or funder terms.