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Scholarly Journals vs. General/Popular Magazines Scholarly Journals The main purpose of a scholarly journal is to report on original research or experimentation Many scholarly journals, though by no means all, are published by a specific professional organization Articles are written by someone who has conducted research in the field and is usually affiliated with a university or research center The language of scholarly journals is that of the discipline covered. It assumes some scholarly background on the part of the reader Articles are lengthy and list their sources in the form of footnotes or endnotes Illustrations, if any, are graphs and charts, with few glossy color pictures Few advertisements (if any)   Substantive News or General Interest Periodicals Main purpose is to provide information in a general manner Published by commercial enterprises/individuals, although some emanate from specific professional organizations Articles are written by an editorial staff member, scholar or freelance writer Sometimes cite sources though more often do not The language is geared to any educated audience. There is no specialty assumed. Articles are often heavily illustrated, generally with photographs Quite attractive in appearance, although some are in newspaper format   Trade Journals Usually contain news or information of interest to people in that profession Often are published by a scholarly professional association Articles may not be footnoted or have few footnotes Articles usually do not reflect original research Articles frequently focus on how to do a job better Journal often publishes job listings Advertisements aimed at people in that profession   Popular Magazines The main purpose is to entertain the reader. Information is often second or third hand; the original source often obscure. There is generally little depth to the content of these articles. Articles are written by staff members or freelance writers. Rarely, if ever, cite sources. Simple language is used; they are designed to meet a minimal education level. Are often somewhat slick and attractive and contain lots of graphics. Advertisements are aimed at the general public.   [Back to Home] [Back to Top] © 2000 by Marywood University Library Maintained by the the Public Services Librarian. Contact hongm@ac.marywood.edu Marywood University, Scranton, PA 18509