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Publication Definitions

Journal

A term used to identify a publication containing scholarly articles based on theory or based on research conducted by scientific methodology. Articles are written by scholars and practitioners in the field. They are refereed by an editorial committee of peers before being accepted for publication. Articles contain footnotes, charts and graphs, as needed, and end with a bibliography of sources. Journals are often published by a university press or are sponsored by a professional organization.

Magazine

A term used to describe publications intended for the general public or a particular interest group. Most articles are written by professional journalists, not scholars. The category covers a broad range: from scandal sheets to respected news reporting, from hobby groups to newsletters of professional organizations intended to keep practitioners aware of new developments.

Abstracts

Used to locate articles on your subject in journals and magazines. Lists article information (citations) under subject terms. Abstracts give a summary of the contents of the article as well as its citation. In print versions abstract entries are arranged in subject groupings and identified by consecutive numbers. A subject index or keyword index will usually identify the abstract entry numbers.