Preregistration

Answer

What is preregistration?

Preregistration is the process of formally documenting and openly publishing the research design, methodology, and analysis plan of a study before data collection begins. This practice is intended to increase the transparency and credibility of research by sharing planned methods, analyses and hypotheses prior to data collection.

Preregistration can be used for various types of studies, including experimental, observational, and qualitative research. Researchers can preregister their studies on various platforms, and a preregistration record typically includes a clear outline of research questions, proposed methods, and intended analyses.

Preregistration has gained popularity across many fields, including psychology, social sciences, and health research, as a way to combat issues like publication bias and p-hacking, ultimately fostering greater trust in scientific findings.

Sharing preregistrations

Preregistration records are commonly shared on dedicated online platforms known as preregistration repositories. The University of Manchester recommends OSF (Open Science Framework) as a supported system for sharing preregistrations and research materials, across all disciplines.

Benefits of preregistration

Facilitation of collaboration: Preregistration allows other researchers to review and potentially collaborate on your study, fostering a culture of openness in research.

Increased transparency: Preregistration provides a clear record of research intentions, ensuring transparency throughout the research process, preventing undisclosed modifications or selective reporting, and bolstering the integrity of the study.

Reduced publication bias: By committing to a predefined plan, researchers diminish the temptation to alter methods or analyses based on observed results or external pressures. Preregistration encourages the publication of null or negative findings including those that may not yield significant results.

Clarity of hypotheses and methods: Preregistration forces researchers to carefully define their hypotheses and research methods, which can improve study design and execution.

How to preregister a study

1. Draft your preregistration: Outline your research questions, methodology, analysis plan, and any other relevant details. Be clear and concise in your descriptions.

2. Obtain co-author approval: Ensure all co-authors agree with the preregistration content before submission.

3. Submit your preregistration: Follow the instructions on Open Science Framework to officially submit your preregistration.

4. Update if necessary: If your study design changes during the research process, update your preregistration to reflect these changes transparently.

Preregistration: reassurance on potential concerns

Impact on flexibility: Some researchers may feel that preregistration restricts flexibility in study design. However, adjustments can still be made, provided they are documented transparently.

Perceived pressure for outcomes: There may be a concern that preregistration implies pressure to achieve predefined outcomes. However it’s important to note that preregistration does not enforce a specific result; rather, it serves to clarify the research process.

Possibility of ideas being ‘scooped’: Some researchers may worry that preregistration might risk exposure of novel ideas and associated loss of priority and recognition. However, publishing a preregistration creates a publicly timestamped document, helping establish the precedence and priority of your work. This makes it more difficult for others to ‘scoop’ your research findings or ideas before you have a chance to formally publish.