At the Trailhead

• Why this matters: Early publication models such as Online First, Publish Ahead of Print, and Continuous Publication affect how articles are cited, corrected, and communicated to authors. Editors need to understand these differences to avoid confusion and ensure consistent messaging.  
• What judgment this supports: Helps editors decide how their journal will define and communicate early publication practices, including terminology, version control, and author expectations.  
• How an editor might use this: Review the journal’s current early publication model, standardize terminology (e.g., Online First), and clarify the process in author guidelines, acceptance letters, and editorial workflows.