Finding Articles > 1: Types of Articles

1A: What is an Article?

An article is defined as "a nonfiction composition that forms an independent part of a publication." There are many different kinds of articles. Some are published in reference sources, such as encyclopedias. Others are posted to blogs. In this tutorial, we consider articles published in periodicals -- regularly issued (or "serial") publications like magazines or journals. Newspaper articles are discussed in another tutorial, News Sources.

1B: Types of Periodicals

The chart below provides more information about different types of periodicals and the articles contained in them.

Criteria	Popular Magazine	Trade or Professional	Scholarly Journal
Examples: Click on the cover images to view sample issues.
Who is the audience?	General public, interested readers.	Those with some background or knowledge in the field.	Researchers and experts.
What are some characteristics?	Articles, often with catchy titles, written by staff writers. Glossy covers, color photographs and numerous advertisements. Do not usually include footnotes or lists of references.	Articles written by staff writers or experts in the field. Glossy covers, color photographs and numerous advertisements. Sometimes include footnotes or lists of references.	Long articles, written by specialists. Plain covers, few photographs or advertisements Always include footnotes and lists of references.
When is it published?	Weekly or monthly.	Weekly, monthly or quarterly.	Four to six times per year.
Where does it come from?	Commercial publishers.	Professional associations, commercial publishers.	Universities, professional associations, commercial publishers.
Why should I use it?	News, opinion, background on topics.	Trends, news, reviews in a particular field.	Research reports and data.

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