The JEL classification codes, also known as Journal of Economic Literature classification codes, are a standardized system of categorizing articles, books, and other published works in the field of economics. Developed by the American Economic Association (AEA), these codes provide a hierarchical framework that assists researchers, librarians, and publishers in organizing and accessing economic literature.
The JEL classification codes are composed of alphanumeric symbols representing different subject areas within economics. Each code consists of two to four digits, with the first digit representing the general category and the subsequent digits offering increasing specificity. For example, the code "A1" denotes general economics, while the code "B12" refers to history of economic thought.
These codes cover a wide range of economic topics, including economic theory, econometrics, labor economics, monetary economics, industrial organization, international economics, and more. By assigning JEL classification codes to their works, authors and publishers facilitate the retrieval and dissemination of research within specific economic subfields.
Furthermore, the JEL classification codes are utilized by numerous indexing and abstracting services, databases, and bibliographic repositories. Researchers often rely on these codes when conducting literature reviews or searching for relevant publications in their areas of interest. Consequently, the JEL classification codes serve as a vital tool for organizing and navigating the vast landscape of economic literature.
