Differences Between Popular and Scholarly
Popular Magazines
- written to inform the general public
- written in nontechnical language
- often illustrated with glossy photos
- source of the information is seldom given
- authors are usually on the staff of the magazine or are freelance writers
- advertisements are aimed at the general public
- available for public purchase (in grocery stores or on newsstands)
Examples: People Weekly, Vogue, Sports Illustrated
Scholarly Journals
- written by someone who has conducted research in the field
- written in the language of the discipline (often technical language)
- illustrations, if any, are graphs and charts
- articles are lengthy and list references
- often target a specialized audience
- often are published by a scholarly, professional association
- few advertisements (non-profit)
Examples: Journal of Genetic Psychology, International Migration Review, Journal of Legal Economics
Trade Journals
- usually contain news, current trends, or information of interest to people in that profession
- articles frequently focus on how to do a job better
- journal often publishes job listings
- articles may not be footnoted or have few footnotes
- advertisements are aimed at people in that profession
Examples: American Biology Teacher, School Library Journal, Progressive
Grocer
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