Library 101 - Your Guide to Library Resources

Periodical Articles

Activity 4a: Evaluate Sources-Periodical Articles

Question:
What are the characteristics of a popular magazine, scholarly journal, opinion periodical, and trade journal? H ow can I tell if my citation is from a popular magazine or scholarly journal?

Answer:
Review characteristics of the main periodical types listed below.

Types of Periodicals	Characteristics
Scholarly Communication Quarterly, Journal of Communication	In-depth analysis Cites prior research in field Uses profession's vocabulary
Popular Time, Newsweek, Discover, Business Week	Current events overviews Layperson's vocabulary Glossy advertisements
Opinion The New Republic, Mother Jones	Political viewpoint General educated audience Political commentary
Trade Downbeat, Billboard, American Libraries	For applied practitioners Product information Current trends & practices

Take a look at this handout for other tips on determining whether an article is from a popular magazine or scholarly journal:

Scholarly Journals vs. Popular Magazines

Still not sure? Try:

Ulrich's International Periodicals Directory (JPL Reference Desk, Z6941 .U5 & Downtown Library, Reference Z6941 .U5) gives basic data on specific periodical titles including whether they are peer reviewed (scholarly). Ulrich's Web is also available electronically from Databases A-Z on the UTSA Library Home Page.