When and How to Deviate From a Preregistration, with Prof Daniël Lakens

As preregistration becomes increasingly common, how should researchers handle deviations from their preregistered analysis plans?

In this session, Prof Daniël Lakens (Eindhoven University of Technology) will present a principled framework for evaluating and reporting deviations from preregistration. Rather than treating all deviations as problematic, this approach helps researchers assess whether changes reduce or increase the severity of a test and improve the validity of inferences.

Drawing on examples such as unforeseen events, preregistration errors, missing information, and violations of assumptions, Prof Lakens will demonstrate how to reflect on the consequences of deviations and report them transparently. The talk will offer practical guidance for researchers navigating the complexities of preregistration in real-world studies.