Popular vs. Scholar Articles
Learn to differentiate between popular and scholarly sources and will be able to use them appropriately in their research.
(Carnegie Vincent Library video, 4:11 min.)
Find out how to search for scholarly articles within EbscoHost's Academic Search Complete database, as well as other useful tips that will help you become a more efficient researcher. Additional info is available on the Popular vs. Scholarly page.
POPULAR SOURCES
GENERAL CHARACTERISTICS
Appears in magazines and newspapers, often with glossy or eye-catching covers. Geared toward a broad, general audience, and articles are reviewed by professional staff editors.
STRUCTURE
Language is meant to be understood by the general population. Tend to be shorter than journal articles. May include pictures, special layouts and/or advertisements. Do not usually list references or notes.
USES
Review process is short in order to get published quickly. Good place to look for current info and events, and useful for getting an overview of a topic. May tell human interest stories or convey emotional responses.
SCHOLARLY SOURCES
GENERAL CHARACTERISTICS
Published in subject-specific journals typically available through subscription only; won't find them in stores. Geared towards scholars and experts in the field, and are reviewed by other scholars in the field (known as the peer-review process).
STRUCTURE
Appear in subject-specific journals, and are written by and for scholars and researchers. Often refereed or peer-reviewed. May include graphs, data and/or statistics about the research. Use subject-specific terminology and phrases. Usually includes a list of references or notes, and articles tend to be more lengthy.
USES
Useful for gathering subject-specific info, research and data. Major way for scholars to communicate, and may present or review research or criticism on a given topic. Quality and reliability of the info is much greater, particularly if it is peer-reviewed.
POINTS TO REMEMBER
