Bibliometrics: An Overview

We provide an overview of the field of bibliometrics, the quantitative analysis of publications, especially as it relates to science and medicine. Bibliometrics involves the analysis of citations, which can aid in measuring the impact of an article on a particular field of study; and of criteria related to assessing a journal’s importance within the field. While bibliometrics has many applications, its use in evaluating researchers has generated the most controversy. We explain and compare many of the standard metrics and the tools for generating them, and provide rankings for key Indian journals. Additionally, we discuss perceptions of metrics by supporters and detractors, some proposed alternatives, and the possible impact of technology and publishing trends on the future of bibliometrics.