The Impact Factor (IF) is frequently used as an indicator of the importance of a journal to its field.
- Impact Factors aim to gauge and demonstrate a journal’s contribution to research within the academic community.
- The IF determines rank and importance by calculating the number of times articles from a journal have been cited in a particular year [1].
- The higher the number of citations or articles coming from a particular journal, or impact factor, the higher it is ranked.
- Impact Factor is also an excellent tool for comparing journals in the subject category.
- It is often used by universities and funding bodies to decide on where to publish, for promotion or hire, and grant applications [2].
For further information, contact your School Librarian or refer to the Metrics Subject Guide.