How do I audit a reference list for retractions and corrections before submission?

Audit each reference by checking its publisher record and Crossmark status for retraction or correction notices, then record the outcome and notice identifier in an audit table that flags affected references and states the action taken.

Crossref describes Crossmark as a way for readers to check a publisher-maintained record for updates such as corrections, retractions, and other changes to a scholarly work. COPE's retraction guidelines describe the purposes, grounds, notices, and responsibilities involved in correcting the research literature through retraction and related actions. ICMJE advises authors to verify references against original sources, cite direct sources where possible, identify retractions, and follow journal reference style.

Audit sequence

1. Build the audit table with one row per reference: citation, DOI or other persistent identifier, publisher record checked, Crossmark status, notice found, notice identifier, affected (yes/no), and action taken. Expected result: every reference has a row before checking begins.
2. Open each reference's publisher record and check its Crossmark status for corrections, retractions, or other changes. Expected result: each row records whether an update notice exists and its identifier.
3. Compare the cited version against the original source as ICMJE advises, confirming the reference points to the direct source. Expected result: mismatches between the citation and the source are flagged for correction.
4. For any flagged reference, decide the citation or disclosure action and write it in the action column. Expected result: each affected reference has a stated resolution.
5. Finalize the table and confirm every row has a recorded outcome and notice identifier where one applies. Expected result: a complete audit table ready to accompany the submission.

Recording outcomes

Use the notice identifier from the publisher record so a reviewer can trace each flag back to its source. Where a check returns no notice, record the record checked and the date; treat the reference as unresolved until the publisher record confirms its status.