GRHAS supports access to the evidence and materials needed to understand a published argument. Authors should include a data or source availability statement that reflects the type of research and the ethical, legal and practical conditions governing access.

What counts as supporting material

Relevant materials may include datasets, analytical code, interview protocols, survey instruments, transcripts, fieldwork records, source catalogues, archival references, image collections and documentation of artistic practice. Identify the materials central to the article and describe how they support the analysis.

For research using published or archival sources, give sufficiently precise citations and collection references. An interpretive study need not create a new dataset to provide a transparent account of its evidence.

Sharing and citation

Where sharing is appropriate, use a repository suited to the material and provide a persistent identifier, version, licence and a brief description. Include documentation explaining variables, procedures or file structure so that readers can use the material. Cite deposited data and software as scholarly outputs.

During double-anonymous review, use an anonymous repository link where available. Supply identifying deposit details separately when needed. Supplementary files should be referenced in the manuscript and named descriptively.

Restricted or sensitive material

Explain restrictions arising from participant consent, personal information, intellectual property, archive rules or community agreements. Describe whether anonymised material can be shared, whether access requires approval, and whom readers should contact.

Use a specific availability statement. For example, identify the archive and its access conditions, provide the repository identifier, or explain why interview records cannot be made public. Avoid promising unrestricted access when the authors cannot grant it.

Editorial assessment and later enquiries

Editors and reviewers may request evidence needed to assess the article through a confidential route. Authors should retain relevant research records and respond to reasonable requests for clarification.

After publication, update repository descriptions to link to corrections or retractions affecting the associated article. Contact the editorial office about a broken link or discrepancy between the published account and supporting material.