When is the optimal time to agree on authorship for a manuscript?

Agreeing on authorship before study initiation is optimal because it helps establish clear expectations and responsibilities among contributors from the outset. This proactive approach can prevent misunderstandings and conflicts later in the process. When authorship criteria are agreed upon prematurely, it ensures that all parties are aware of what contributions will warrant authorship and facilitates discussion about roles in the study design, data analysis, and manuscript preparation.

Additionally, this early agreement aligns with best practices in publication ethics, ensuring that all authors meet the recommended criteria for authorship as outlined by guidelines such as those from the International Committee of Medical Journal Editors (ICMJE). These include making substantial contributions to the conception or design of the work, drafting, and revising it critically for intellectual content.

In contrast, waiting until after the manuscript is written or during later stages like peer review or final submission can lead to disputes about authorship, especially if contributions are contested or if individuals were not involved throughout the manuscript development process. Establishing authorship early, therefore, contributes to the integrity of the research collaboration and enhances the accountability of all parties involved.