Best way to submit name for publication

[FlameGrilledChicken]

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Hi everyone,

Just recently found out that I will be a co-author on a paper and my supervisor has asked how I would like my name submitted. Let's assume my name is John Michael Smith but I go by Michael during normal conversation, what is the best way to list my name? John M. Smith or J. Michael Smith or something else?

 

[Lawpy]

It doesn't matter. Pick the name you like the most.

 

[WedgeDawg]

If you go by John, then John M. Smith. If you go by Michael, then J. Michael Smith. If you go by John Michael, then John Michael Smith. Whatever you do, try to keep it relatively consistent between pubs.

 

[FlameGrilledChicken]

Thank you so much guys, I feel like this is a non-issue that I'm over thinking and I really appreciate you taking the time to help me out!

 

[freak7]

Thank you so much guys, I feel like this is a non-issue that I'm over thinking and I really appreciate you taking the time to help me out!

You are incredibly courteous.

 

[TelemarketingEnigma]

Pick the name you want to come up in search results, and that you plan to use for all future publications! If one combination is more unique and can set you apart from others with similar names, that can be a good choice.

I have a somewhat unique name combination (so I come up easily in google results), and primarily use a shortened nickname version of my first name in daily life. I actually like to use my formal first name for publications, posters, anything I might want someone to find if they google me in formal circumstances. I use my shortened/common name for social media, fun stuff that I don't necessarily want in formal results. Just make sure to be consistent with it for any future publications, so that they all come up in searches for the same name.

 

[aldol16]

Different journals have different guidelines for author names. Look at the journal's guidelines. If it's vague or allows you to submit whatever you want, I would recommend submitting first and last name, minimum, because if somebody wants to Google you, that's most likely what they will Google. Unless everything you have online is first initial, middle name, last name.