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source_url: "https://resources.nu.edu/researchprocess/academicandpopular?utm_source=openai"
title: "Academic, Popular & Trade Publications - The Research Process - LibGuides at National University"
mirrored_at: 2026-09-01T01:03:53.651Z
host: resources.nu.edu
cited_in_42a: true
mirror_canonical: "https://index.42a.ai/resources.nu.edu/researchprocess/academicandpopular__q__utm_source_openai"
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> **Original source:** https://resources.nu.edu/researchprocess/academicandpopular?utm_source=openai

### What Are Scholarly and Peer-Reviewed Sources?

Academic resources—such as journal articles, scholarly books, and dissertations—go through a formal review process before they are published. Many scholarly journals use a process called **peer review**, in which experts in the field evaluate a manuscript for quality, accuracy, and contribution to the discipline.

For example, journals like the _New England Journal of Medicine_ use peer review to help ensure that published research meets high standards.

Scholarly and peer-reviewed works are created to **add to the body of knowledge** in a field. However, even peer-reviewed sources should be read critically—standards can vary between journals, and thoughtful evaluation is an important part of your research process.

### Focusing on Scholarly Research Articles

For most university assignments, especially at the graduate level, you will be expected to use **scholarly research articles**.

Keep in mind that scholarly journals include more than just research articles. You may also see content such as:

-   Editorials
-   Book reviews
-   News items
-   Letters to the editor

While these are valuable in some contexts, they are **not considered research articles**. When completing assignments, be sure to focus primarily on articles that present original research.

### Characteristics of Scholarly Research Articles

Scholarly research articles often share common features. As you review sources, look for the following:

-   A reference or bibliography list
-   Clearly defined research question(s)
-   A described research method (qualitative, quantitative, or mixed methods)
-   A sample or population being studied
-   Use of tools or instruments to collect data
-   A literature review (overview of existing research)
-   Analysis and interpretation of findings
-   Often multiple authors
-   Scholarly or academic writing style
-   Longer length compared to popular articles
-   Tables, charts, or figures presenting data

**Tip:** Not every article will include all of these elements, but most research-based studies will include several of them.

### How to Find Scholarly, Peer-Reviewed Articles

Most library databases allow you to limit your search results to scholarly or peer-reviewed sources.

For step-by-step guidance, visit:

[How do I find scholarly, peer-reviewed journal articles?](https://nu.libanswers.com/faq/168483)

**Pro tip:** If you're unsure whether a source meets the requirements for your assignment, it's okay to ask for help—this is a skill that develops with practice.

If you need support:

-   Reach out to a librarian
-   Ask your instructor
-   Use library guides and tutorials

We’re here to support you throughout your research journey.