Here is a comparison of scholarly journals and popular magazines. Not all characteristics have to apply to make it a scholarly journal. Ask your instructor or a reference librarian for assistance if needed.

Characteristic Magazines Journals
Author Journalist, layperson, or
author unknown		 Expert, scholar,
professional, professor
References Cited Usually none Includes a bibliography
Editing Reviewed by one
or more persons
employed by magazines		 Editorial board or outside
scholars review articles
before publishing, peer reviewers
who referee the journal
Audience General public Scholars, researchers,
students of the field
Advertisements Many Few to none
Frequency Usually weekly or monthly Usually monthly or quarterly
Content General interest More specialized, research based
Language High School or lower More technical language

For a more complete understanding of the peer review process, view the definition for 'peer review' from Wikipedia, the free online encyclopedia.