The advancement of science depends on the sharing of data, observations, results, and interpretations. This communication can take the form of talking or emailing with colleagues and attending or presenting at professional meetings. However, to reach the widest possible audience, scientists publish in scientific journals.

The following diagram illustrates the publishing cycle of scientific information. As information moves through this process, it becomes increasingly formalized. As information is published and distributed, it is read and informs the future work of scientists.

Scroll over each section for a brief description of each stage of the literature cycle.