Discussions have taken place about relevant criteria for "scientific publications". That such criteria exist is apparent when faculties of medicine issue guidelines for classification and quantification of scientific publications. In this article the authors focus on lack of clarity and consistency in the prevailing classifications; for example, that the language in which it is published appears to be essential as such. Different disciplines must of necessity have a variety of forms of publication, depending on the target groups for the different publications. It is argued that classification and evaluation of scientific publications should be based on a more nauanced academic standpoint.