Bibliometrics: what is it? What is it used for? And how to do it?

Abstract

Bibliometrics is a method that enables the quantitative mapping of scientific information found in scientific literature. This work aims to provide an overview of Bibliometrics and guidance on the step-by-step process for its construction. For this purpose, a narrative review was conducted between December 2023 and January 2024, using virtual research platforms and databases such as Google Scholar, ResearchGate, the National Library of Medicine, and the Scientific Electronic Library Online. No criteria for material selection restrictions were adopted for data collection; however, the texts should focus on literature reviews, especially in Bibliometrics. This article is intended for undergraduate and postgraduate students in various fields of knowledge. It may also facilitate students' understanding of bibliometric analyses, contributing to the increase in the volume of scientific publications adopting Bibliometrics as a method and aiding in the accumulation of scientific knowledge and visibility in the scientific community.