Authorship complaints
How it works
To find out if a case, or suspected case of ethics abuse, falls within the category of this tree, please consult the definitions provided under ‘What identifies a case in this area?’ If it does, the recommended action of this tree can be followed. This tree furthermore provides:
- Case studies.
- References to the relevant form letters (examples of appropriate letters for various situations).
- Flow charts from COPE, here named ‘COPE charts’. These are available for a second opinion. This is often the time for the editor to discuss the case with his/her publishing contact within Elsevier and agree what action, if any, needs to be taken.
- References to relevant Elsevier policies/links.
What identifies a case in this area? 
Recommended action
Case studies COPE chartsNote
Relevant Elsevier policies/links
Corresponding author requests addition of extra author before publication
Corresponding author requests removal of author before publication
Request for addition of extra author after publication
Request for removal of author after publication
Suspected guest, ghost or gift authorship
Advice on how to spot authorship problems
Duties of authors
Elsevier policy on article withdrawal
Changes to the authorship of accepted manuscripts
