Can journals limit the number of authors listed on a manuscript?

Journals have the authority to implement restrictions on the number of authors that can be included on a manuscript. This practice can be based on specific editorial policies aimed at maintaining the quality and integrity of the publication. For instance, a journal may choose to limit authorship to ensure that contributors significantly contributed to the research and writing process or to facilitate a clearer understanding of the author's contributions.

Different fields and journals may have varying norms regarding authorship, and these limitations can help prevent issues related to inflated author lists where individuals may not have substantially contributed. Journals may have specific criteria for authorship, often aligned with guidelines provided by organizations like the International Committee of Medical Journal Editors (ICMJE), which defines who qualifies for authorship.

Understanding that journals can impose these restrictions is crucial for authors and researchers when they prepare their manuscripts, as it ensures compliance with the specific requirements set forth by the journal they are submitting to.