The University Library and Science Library will be closed through Tuesday (July 16) because of unexpected facilities issues.  We apologize for the inconvenience.

scholarly journal cover

Scholarly Journals

  • Have a serious appearance. 
  • The words "Journal," "Transactions," "Proceedings," or "Quarterly," may appear in the title.
  • Written for professors, students or researchers. 
  • Signed by the authors.
  • Articles are reviewed by a board of experts or "peer reviewers."
  • Follow a format:  abstract, literature review, methodology, results, conclusion, possibly footnotes, endnotes and/or bibliography.
  • May include tables, graphs or illustrations to support research.
  • Very little advertising.
trade magazine cover

Professional or Trade Journals

  • May have a bright cover.
  • Provide information of use to a particular industry.
  • No specific format.
  • Articles sometimes unsigned.
  • General editors of the magazine review articles.
  • Advertising is used to appeal to those in the field.
magazine covers

Popular Magazines

  • May have a bright cover with many glossy pictures.
  • Designed to attract a broad segment of the population.
  • No specific format.
  • Articles sometimes unsigned.
  • General editors of the magazine review articles.
  • May include tables, graphs or illustrations.
  • Lots of advertising.

Identify a scholarly journal

The Ulrich's International Periodicals Directory can help you identify peer-reviewed journals.
Access this database

Still Have Questions?

Librarians are standing by 24/7, ready with answers. Go ahead, ask us!
ASK US!