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ENGL 151T: Technical Writing: Periodicals

Use this guide to find resources for ENGL 151T - Technical Writing.

What are Periodicals?

Periodicals are information sources that are published on a regular, recurring schedule. They include scholarly journals, magazines, trade journals, newspapers, and newsletters and are typically published daily, weekly, monthly, quarterly, or yearly.

Know Your Sources

Scholarly Journals

  • Articles are written by authorities in the field
  • Articles undergo a peer review process before acceptance for publication
  • Authors of articles always cite their sources
  • Example: New England Journal of Medicine

Magazines

  • Intended for a general audience
  • Articles are written by staff reporters
  • Articles are heavily illustrated, generally with photographs
  • No peer review process
  • Articles usually do not have references or a bibliography
  • Example: Newsweek, Time, National Geographic

Trade Journals

  • Articles are written by members of a profession or a technical writer
  • Credentials are not usually provided - no peer review process
  • Articles include terms commonly used in the profession or trade
  • Articles provide practical information for members, including news, trends, products & research summaries
  • Articles include a moderate number of advertisements targeted to the interests of the members of the profession or trade
  • Examples: Control Engineering, Electronic Design

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