Author position in academic journals refers to the order authors are listed. It reflects their contribution level. First author: main contributor. Corresponding/last author: overseer. Middle authors: varied roles. Varies by field and journal.
The first author is the main contributor, leading research design, data collection, analysis, and writing. Holds importance and recognition.
The corresponding author, often a senior researcher, supervises, secures funding, guides the project, handles journal communication, and maintains research integrity. Last author can also be corresponding.
Middle authors, between first and last, contribute variably, from significant involvement to support roles like resources or analysis.