Is it scholarly?

Distinguishing periodical types

http://www.library.illinois.edu/ugl/howdoi/pertype.html

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Is it scholarly? Distinguishing periodical types

The table below lists some of the distinguishing characteristics among different types of periodicals. Keep in mind: These descriptions are only general rules and, as with all rules, there are exceptions. Physical appearance can give you clues as to the type of periodical, but it is also important to evaluate the content of each article to determine its credibility and usefulness. Look at the characteristics in multiple categories, do not base your decision on only one or two! If you are still unsure whether a periodical is considered an academic/scholarly journal, Ulrich's Periodicals Directory lists all periodicals that are currently being published. For most entries, there is a section called document type that indicates its periodical type. When in doubt, check with your instructor concerning the suitability of a source for your assignment. For help making decisions for online full-text articles see: Is it scholarly? Distinguishing online periodical types .

CRITERIA

Scholarly Journals (also called academic, peer-reviewed, and refereed)

Professional and Trade Periodicals

Popular and Special Interest Magazines

Purpose for Publication

Inform and report original research Provide in-depth analysis of issues related to a specific discipline

Current trends, news, and research in a specific field Provide employment & career information

Entertain, inform, and persuade without providing in-depth analysis

General Characteristics

Lengthy articles Citations, bibliographies Charts, graphs, tables

Some research articles Statistics and forecasts Sources cited

Articles usually fairly short Sources generally not cited

Frequency of Publication

Often quarterly

Often monthly

Usually monthly or weekly

Author Information

Scholars and professors Researchers in the field Author credentials included

Scholars Staff writers Freelance journalists

Freelance journalists Editorial staff Authors may not be identified

Article Characteristics

Generally lengthy Focus on a narrow subject or piece of research

Varying lengths Research articles News from the field "How to" information

Usually short General information, little detail

Words and Jargon Used

Terminology used by scholars in the discipline

Language specific to those in a given profession

Common language and sentence structure, no jargon

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Is it scholarly? Distinguishing periodical types

http://www.library.illinois.edu/ugl/howdoi/pertype.html

Physical Appearance

Usually plain black print on white paper Rarely photographs, colorful graphics, or advertising

Some photographs and graphics Advertising specific to the discipline

Slick and glossy Many photographs Extensive advertising

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For comments on this page contact: Undergraduate Library Last modified by: Hilary Bussell on 3/27/12

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