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Chemistry Writing3 min read·May 20, 2026

How to Cite a ChemRxiv Preprint in ACS Style

Preprints are now widely cited in chemistry. This guide covers the ACS format for ChemRxiv, arXiv, and other preprint servers, with worked examples.

Preprints allow researchers to share findings before peer review. ChemRxiv, arXiv, and bioRxiv are common sources in chemistry citations. ACS style treats them similarly to other non-journal publications with a server name and DOI.

ChemRxiv example

Li, M.; Wang, X. Machine Learning in Drug Discovery. ChemRxiv 2025. https://doi.org/10.26434/chemrxiv-2025-xxxxx.

The preprint server name is italic. The year is bold, matching journal article conventions.

arXiv and other servers

Many arXiv preprints now have DOIs via doi.org/10.48550/arXiv.xxxx. Prefer the DOI when available. Note in your paper that the source is a preprint and has not undergone peer review if your instructor or journal requires that disclosure.

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