Some variations on the standard theoretical models for the h-index: A comparative analysis

Various mathematical models have been proposed in the recent literature for estimating the h‐index using measures such as number of articles (P) and citations received (C). These models have been previously empirically tested assuming a mathematical model and predetermining the models' parameter values at some fixed constant. The present study, from a statistical modeling viewpoint, investigates alternative distributions commonly used for this type of point data. The study shows that the typical assumptions for the parameters of the h‐index mathematical models in such representations are not always realistic, with more suitable specifications being favorable. Prediction of the h‐index is also demonstrated.