On what basis is publication credit primarily given?

Publication credit is primarily given based on the relative scientific or professional contributions of the individuals involved in the research. This approach recognizes the importance of each contributor's role in the study, emphasizing that those who have made significant contributions to the concept, design, execution, or interpretation of the research should receive appropriate recognition. This method ensures that authorship reflects the actual work performed and the expertise brought to the publication.

While other factors such as alphabetical order, length of contribution, or previous publication history might influence considerations around authorship, they do not genuinely capture the value and significance of what each author contributed to the research. The focus on relative contributions aligns with ethical standards in scholarly publishing, which advocate for transparency and fairness in crediting authors based on merit rather than arbitrary criteria. This acknowledgment encourages accountability and sustains the integrity of the scientific community.