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Periodicals and Journals

The table below can help you understand the differences between scholarly journals, professional/trade journals, and popular periodicals. 

Searching for scholarly journals:
Ulrich's Web: This index to periodicals provides detailed information such as price, frequency, and whether the publication contains peer-reviewed (i.e., scholarly) articles.

ProQuest: This database allows you to limit your search by type of periodical.

Peer Reviewed = Scholarly?
Not always. Scholarly implies an academic audience whereas some non-scholarly works can undergo editorial review or review by peers.

Criteria
Scholarly Journals
Professional/Trade Journals
Popular Periodicals/ Magazines
Audience Researchers and experts Members of a trade or profession The general public
Author Researchers and experts Staff writers and experts in the field Staff writers, although many articles are unsigned
References (Sources cited)
 Includes reference lists and bibliography. All quotes and facts are documented.
 Reference lists sometimes included.

 References rarely included.
Purpose To disseminate research findings  To publicize current topics in the field and professional issues To disseminate general information or to entertain
Content Detailed research reports and methodologies  Trends, standards, and new technologies in the field General interest stories and news; may include personal narrative and opinions
Language Jargon that assumes expertise in the field Jargon that assumes expertise in the field Language that requires no expertise
Publisher Associations or universities Associations Commercial organizations
Layout Highly structured organization; includes abstract, bibliography, charts or graphs Structured organization; usually includes abstract, bibliography, charts or graphs Informal organization: eye-catching type and format; includes illustrations or photographs
Examples Journal of the American Medical Association; Political Science Quarterly Hospital Business Week; Real Estate Weekly News; Farm Industry News
 Time; Newsweek; Science News

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