When you start your research in a database, the result list includes articles from various
resources. The chart below explains the difference between the three most common
sources of information – academic journals, trade publications and magazines.
Trade
Publications
Magazines
Examples
Style
Advertisements
Article Length
Writing Style
Authors
Examples
Style
Article Length
Advertisements
Writing Style
Authors
Examples
Style
Advertisements
Writing Style
Authors
Harvard Business Review,
American Journal of Marketing,
Journal of Technology Studies
Simple, one color or black
and white illustrations
To provide research findings
and important information
Monthly, quarterly,
semi-annually or annually
Expert
Professors, graduate students,
professionals
Peer-reviewed
(approved by a panel of experts
in the discipline)
Reviewed by industry editor Reviewed by general editor
Industry professionals Staff writers, general
freelance writers
Professional Casual
Monthly or quarterly Weekly or monthly
To inform or educate
professionals in the industry
To inform or entertain
the general public
None
Long Medium Medium or short
Only those pertaining to
the targeted industry
Many
Color photos,
glossy or matte paper
Color photos, glossy paper
AdWeek, Chef,
Fire Management Notes,
Library Journal, Publisher’s Weekly
People, Sports Illustrated,
Time, Life, Martha Stewart Living,
American Girl, Cricket
Academic Journals vs. Trade Publications vs. Magazines
What’s the Difference?
Academic
Journals
help.ebsco.com
Article Length
Purpose Purpose Purpose
Publication frequency Publication frequency Publication frequency
Content Review Content Review Content Review
