Registered Reports
Review the question and methods before results exist
Registered Reports are a publication format in which a journal reviews the rationale and protocol before the main research is conducted. Successful Stage 1 review can produce in-principle acceptance; Stage 2 assesses adherence, evidence and interpretation against the agreed plan. This differs from preregistration alone and depends on the journal’s specific requirements.
Use when a confirmatory question benefits from design review before data collection and the timetable can accommodate Stage 1. Identify a suitable journal and fully specify methods, analyses and feasibility.
Strengths
- Rewards sound questions and methods before outcomes are known
- Can reduce publication decisions driven by statistical significance
Limitations
- Stage 1 review adds lead time
- Protocols and resources must be mature before the main study begins
Know the boundary
In-principle acceptance is conditional on meeting the journal’s agreed requirements, not automatic acceptance of any later report.