selfcite

Self-cite refers to the practice of an author referencing their own previously published work within a new publication. This is a common and accepted practice in academic and research fields. It allows authors to build upon their prior findings, provide context for their current research, or demonstrate the progression of their ideas over time.

There are several reasons why an author might self-cite. They may need to refer back to a foundational study they conducted which established the basis for their current work. Self-citation can also be used to refer to related research they have published, helping readers to understand the broader landscape of their investigations. In some cases, it might be necessary to correct or clarify points made in earlier publications, or to provide a more comprehensive overview of a specific research area where they have significant contributions.

While generally acceptable, excessive or inappropriate self-citation can be viewed negatively. It can be perceived as an attempt to artificially inflate publication metrics or to promote one's own work without sufficient justification. Ethical guidelines and journal policies often address self-citation, encouraging authors to be judicious and ensure that references to their own work are as relevant and necessary as any other citation. The key is to ensure that the self-citation serves the reader by providing essential context or building upon established research, rather than simply accumulating references.