ENGL 104 - Technical Writing - Zacker

Scholarly Journal

• In-Depth- primary account of original findings written by the researcher.  Very specific information.
• Purpose- to advance knowledge and educate.
• Author- Usually a scholar or specialist with subject expertise and credentials provided.
• Written for scholars, researchers, and students.
• Uses specialized terminology or jargon of the field.
• Format- includes the article abstract, goals and objectives, methodology, results (evidence), discussion, conclusion, and bibliography.
• Articles are evaluated by peer-reviewers or referees who are experts in the field.
• References are provided.
• Examples- Journal of Abnormal Psychology, History of Education Quarterly

Popular Magazine

• Secondary discussion of someone else's research, may include personal narrative or opinion, general information.
• Purpose- to entertain or inform
• Author- frequently a journalist paid to write articles, may or may not have subject expertise.
• Written for the general public and interested non-specialists.
• Easily understandable to most readers.
• Format- may include non-standard formatting.  May not present supporting evidence or a conclusion.
• Articles are evaluated by editorial staff not experts in the field.
• References or source materials rarely provided.
• Examples- Sports Illustrated, National Geographic, Time, Newsweek, Ladies Home Journal.

Trade Journal or Magazine

• Current news, trends or products in a specific field or industry.
• Purpose- provide practical industry information
• Author- usually industry professional, sometimes a journalist with subject expertise.
• Written for industry professionals and interested non-specialists.
• Uses specialized terminology or jargon of the field, but not as technical as a scholarly journal.
• Format- organized like a journal or newsletter.  Presents evidence from personal experience or common knowledge.
• Articles are evaluated by editorial staff, not peer reviewed.
• References may be provided in brief bibliography, not required.
• Examples- PC World, Restaurant Business, Psychology Today, School Band and Orchestra