What distinguishes refereed publications from non-refereed ones?

Refereed publications, also known as peer-reviewed publications, are distinguished primarily by their rigorous pre-publication review process conducted by qualified individuals in the field. This means that before an article is published, it must undergo evaluation and critique by experts who assess its validity, significance, and originality. This process ensures a higher level of quality and reliability in the research being presented, making it a trusted source for academic and professional use.

In contrast, non-refereed publications may not go through such a stringent review process, which can lead to variations in quality and credibility of the information presented. Thus, the hallmark of a refereed publication is this emphasis on ensuring that the content has been vetted by knowledgeable professionals before being made available to the public. This peer-review mechanism is essential for maintaining academic integrity and advancing knowledge in any discipline.