Answered By: Kim
Last Updated: Aug 04, 2025     Views: 1

A popular magazine is written for the general public, using simple language and no citations, while a trade journal targets professionals in a specific field with industry news and trends. In contrast, a scholarly journal (or peer-reviewed article) is written by experts, includes original research, and is reviewed by other scholars before publication.

Here's a general overview of some important aspects of each type of source:

Feature Popular Magazine Trade Journal Scholarly Journal
Audience General public Industry professionals  Academics/researchers
Content Entertainment/news  Industry news/trends Original research/theory 
Authors Journalists/writers Practitioners/experts Scholars/researchers
Review Process  None Editor-reviewed Peer-reviewed
References Rare Sometimes Always included

 

Speak with a librarian for additional help.

Related Topics

Contact Us

Contact a MCC Librarian

Email: mcclibrary@middlesex.edu

Text: 978.241.7884

Bedford Campus Library: 781.280.3708

Lowell Campus Library: 978.656.3004