How should one format when citing a pre-published book?

Citing pre-published books requires specific formatting conventions to acknowledge their unpublished status while providing necessary retrieval details. This practice is feasible and follows established citation guidelines like APA, MLA, or Chicago. Key principles involve clearly identifying the work's status using labels such as "Manuscript submitted for publication," "Manuscript in preparation," or "Unpublished manuscript." Always prioritize citing the most authoritative and accessible version available. If retrieved from a repository or personal website, include a direct URL or DOI where possible; if obtained via personal communication, clearly state this method. Include the retrieval date for online sources due to potential instability. Crucially, omit publisher information and final pagination. Apply this format when referencing work not formally published or in the final stages of peer review. Use standard citation style templates, replacing publisher details with the status label and including the access point. This ensures scholarly transparency and credit attribution, supports arguments with the most current research, and avoids misrepresentation of the work's dissemination stage.