Want to make sure your articles are from academic journals?
As you examine a periodical, whether newspaper, newsletter, magazine, or journal, think about the following:
- Are the articles signed? Can you find out something about the authors' credentials?
- Examine the length of the articles. Longer articles are characteristic of a scholarly publication.
- Are there references at the end of each article? Again an indication of a scholarly journal.
- Does it seem as if the articles are directed toward a niche group, such as athletes, musicians, teachers, etc.?
What else can you think of that may help you to decide scholarly, popular, or trade?
