Library GuidesLibrary Guides-Who wrote this article, and are they qualified to speak on the topic?
-Who published this article, and do they have an interest in shaping your views?
-Who funded this article, and are there adverts included in the article?
-When was this article published, and is it outdated?
-Where do they get their information, and is That source trustworthy?
-Does the author give citations on where they found their information?
There is a great deal of useful information out there, so do not limit yourself to the first thing you find! Evaluate and judge your sources.
| Scholarly Journal Articles | Popular Magazine Articles |
| Focus is narrow and specific. | Focus of articles are broader |
| Articles include in-text citations and footnotes, with a bibliography or list of works cited. | Rarely include notes or bibliographies |
| Articles report on research done by the author(s). | Articles may be oriented toward general information or entertainment |
| Articles are almost always peer-reviewed or "refereed" (reviewed by other experts prior to publication). Check the journal's website if you're not sure. | Articles are not reviewed prior to publication |
| Authors are always identified, and are subject experts | Authors may not be identified, or are staff writers or journalists. |
| The audience is other experts - usually the language will use the terminology of the field. | The audience is ordinary people, and the language is less specialized. |
| Graphics are used for purposes of illustration or to convey data | Graphics and illustrations are used for impact and appeal, as well as illustration |
| There are little or no advertisements. | Advertising is everywhere. |
Questions? Need Help? Email reference@drew.edu
Drew University Library, http://www.drew.edu/library