LibAnswers

Ask yourself these questions while looking over the article to indicate if it is a reliable, accurate source:

1. Is it written by a scholar?

• Authors typically have advanced degrees (e.g., Ph.D., M.D.).
• Authors are affiliated with universities, hospitals, or research organizations.

2. What is it about? Who is the intended audience?

• The article aims to provide original research and deepen the understanding of a topic.
• Topics are narrowly defined with a theoretical or technical focus (scholarly), or broader for popular audiences.
• Research-based and analytical, not just persuasive or informative.

3. How is it structured?

• Clear structure typical of scientific studies (e.g., abstract, headings for purpose, design, results, discussion).
• Usually lengthy (more than 5 pages).
• Less structured articles are likely not scholarly.

 4. How is it written?

• Formal and technical language indicates a scholarly source.
• May include professional jargon for trade sources, or plain language for popular sources.
• Objective  with logical arguments and many citations supporting claims.

5. What is the publication type?

• Published in an academic or scholarly journal. Tip: You can Google the journal to get more information about it!
• Check the “About” or “Aims and Scope” sections for the purpose of the article.
• Scholarly journals have a plain appearance with minimal advertising, unlike flashy, colorful sites. If the site is flashy - it is probably not scholarly.