Is It Acceptable to Have Only One Author on a Scientific Publication?

The question of whether it is acceptable to have only one author on a scientific publication without any co-authors is a matter that has sparked considerable debate within the academic community. In fact, single-authored papers are not only common but also essential in various academic disciplines.

Commonality of Single-Author Papers

It is important to understand that professional journals and research publications frequently feature single-authored papers. This is a widely accepted practice, especially in the humanities and social sciences, where individual scholars often develop their ideas and present them independently. Even in laboratory sciences, such as biology and chemistry, single-authored papers are not uncommon, particularly when a researcher conducts the vast majority of the work on their own.

For instance, I personally published my first paper in Europe as a single author. The rules and norms surrounding authorship can vary significantly from one field to another, and there are no strict guidelines on trivial details like the number of authors in a paper. In some cases, journals even encourage single-author submissions, acknowledging the value of individual contributions.

Rare but Acceptable: Single-Author Reviews and Original Research

Single-author articles are not limited to original research. Reviews, for example, can also be written and published by a single author. These reviews provide a comprehensive summary and critical analysis of existing literature on a specific topic, contributing valuable insights to the field. Similarly, scholarly perspectives can be developed and published by individual scholars, providing a unique viewpoint that enriches the academic discourse.

Historically, some of the most significant papers in the development of science have been single-author productions. While the contemporary paper in question may not fit this mold, it is clear that such contributions have been crucial in advancing the field.

The Role of Co-Authors

While single-author publications are common and valuable, co-authorship remains a fundamental aspect of many fields, particularly in laboratory sciences. Co-authors bring diverse perspectives, expertise, and resources, which can be crucial for the success of a research project. Moreover, co-authors can share the workload and ensure that all aspects of the research are thoroughly addressed and documented.

The decision to publish a single-author article or a co-authored article ultimately depends on the individual author's preference, the requirements of the journal or publisher, and the norms of the specific field. While co-authorship can provide numerous benefits, single-author publications should not be dismissed as they often reflect independent and innovative work.

Getting Started with Self-Publishing

For those interested in self-publishing, the process can indeed seem daunting. However, with the right approach and the proper tools, self-publishing can be a rewarding and straightforward endeavor. After publishing over 200 books on Amazon and running hundreds of millions of Amazon ads, I have developed a method to simplify the self-publishing process and increase the chances of success.

The key is to break down the steps into manageable, bite-sized chunks. In my free self-publishing secrets checklist, I outline a series of straightforward tasks that can be completed in easy-to-manage increments, allowing authors to streamline the publication process and focus on their work. By following these steps, aspiring authors can overcome the initial hurdles of self-publishing and bring their research to a wider audience.

Whether you are writing a single-authored review, conducting original research, or collaborating with co-authors, the most important thing is to focus on the quality of your work and its contribution to your field. The form of publication is secondary, as long as the content is valuable, informative, and well-presented.