Preregistration means specifying your research plan — hypotheses, methods, sample size, and analysis strategy — in a public registry before data collection begins. It is a cornerstone of open science and is increasingly required or strongly encouraged by journals, funders, and ethics boards worldwide.
Why Preregister Your Study
Preregistration distinguishes confirmatory hypothesis testing from exploratory analysis, reducing questionable research practices such as HARKing (Hypothesizing After Results are Known) and p-hacking. Journals including Nature Human Behaviour and PLOS ONE actively encourage or require preregistered studies.
Where to Preregister
The Open Science Framework (OSF) at osf.io offers free preregistration for all research disciplines. Clinical trials must register on ClinicalTrials.gov (USA/global) or the relevant national registry. AsPredicted.org provides a simplified six-question format ideal for psychological and behavioral research.
What to Include in Your Preregistration
A complete preregistration specifies: the research question and hypotheses, the study design and participants (inclusion/exclusion criteria, planned sample size with power analysis), all planned measures and manipulations, the primary statistical analysis plan, and any planned sensitivity or secondary analyses.
Registered Reports
Some journals offer Registered Reports, a publication format where the study design and introduction are peer-reviewed before data collection begins. Accepted Registered Reports receive an in-principle acceptance, guaranteeing publication regardless of results. This format combats publication bias effectively.
Submitting a Preregistered Study
When submitting a preregistered study, include the preregistration URL in the manuscript and cover letter. Clearly delineate planned versus exploratory analyses. Reviewers and editors increasingly expect transparency about deviations from the preregistered protocol; explain any deviations openly.
Summary
Preregistration is a powerful tool that strengthens the credibility of your research and improves publication prospects in journals committed to transparency. Invest 1–3 hours in a rigorous preregistration — it will pay dividends throughout the peer review process and beyond.
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