Contents:
1. What is a 'returned' submission?
2. When should I return a submission?
2. How do I return a submission?
3. Why has a researcher asked me to return a study?
What is a 'returned' submission?
Sometimes you might not complete a study to the end, so returning a study simply means leaving the study before you've completed it.
When should I return a submission?
You realize you don't have enough time to complete it
You encounter a technical issue
You're using an incompatible device
You believe there's an issue with the study that should be reported to Prolific
You simply lose interest or change your mind about participating
After completion, you realize your submission shouldn't be used by the researcher
The researcher requests you return your submission for a valid reason
How do I return a submission?
You can return a study whenever you like, including:
When you've reserved a place on a study
If you've just reserved a place but changed your mind, simply click 'Cancel Reservation' to return the study
While you're actively participating in a study
If you're currently working on a study, click 'Cancel participation' on the Prolific webpage (not the study webpage)
After you've submitted a study and it's awaiting review
To return a study you've already submitted:
Go to your Submissions page
Locate the study you submitted, and look for a circular arrow labeled "Return and cancel reward"
Click the arrow, then confirm by clicking "Proceed" on the pop-up
That's all you need to do - it returns the study and prevents you from receiving an unwarranted rejection.
Keep in mind that since you haven't completed the study, you won't receive payment for a returned submission.
Why has a researcher asked me to return a submission?
Researchers may request that you return your submission if:
You only partially completed the study - for example, if you were fairly screened out
You encountered technical problems. You should not be rejected for this - please ask the researcher to consider awarding partial payments, though they aren't obligated to do so
You withdrew your consent (the researcher will then delete any data they have from you in their external software)
The researcher prefers to give you the opportunity to return your submission rather than penalize you with a rejection. Note that rejections should only be given when a participant has been clearly negligent.
✋ Please note: researchers cannot return submissions themselves
Prolific reserves the right to overturn invalid rejections in certain circumstances.
If you believe you've been unfairly asked to return a study, please contact support using the button below and provide:
Screenshots of your communication with the researcher
The name of the study in question.