How to get past paywalls and read scientific studies

Accessing Scientific Studies: Beyond the Paywall

Many Popular Science articles link to scientific studies. While the articles provide valuable information, accessing the original studies can be challenging due to paywalls. This article outlines several legitimate methods to access these studies for free.

Utilize Google Scholar:

Don't be deterred by paywalls. Search the study title (or part of the title with the author's last name) on Google Scholar. Look for a direct [HTML] or [PDF] link to the full text. If the sidebar link is unavailable, click "All X versions" to explore alternative sources. Using a regular Google search with the operator filetype:PDF can also uncover papers not indexed by Google Scholar.

Leverage Browser Extensions:

For frequent researchers, browser extensions like Unpaywall (Chrome and Firefox) and Open Access Button (browser-agnostic) streamline the process. Unpaywall displays a padlock icon; a green padlock indicates a free version. While often mirroring Google Scholar results, these extensions offer a more convenient approach.

Explore Library Resources:

Many public libraries subscribe to academic databases. Obtain a library card (often free or inexpensive) to access these resources remotely, including scholarly journals. If your library lacks the specific publication, inquire about interlibrary loan services. University libraries offer even broader access, and some may offer fee-based access to non-students.

Contact the Authors Directly:

As a last resort, contact the study's authors. Paywall revenue benefits publishers, not researchers. Many authors willingly share their work. Locate their current email address (not necessarily the one listed in the publication) through their university website, ResearchGate, LinkedIn, or personal website. Politely request a copy and express your appreciation for their research.

By employing these strategies, you can overcome paywall barriers and access the full text of scientific studies legally and ethically.

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