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Magazines publish information about a topic around a week after an event occurs and usually do not provide in-depth research.
There are two types of magazines: Substantive News/General Interest and Popular
The two types have many similarities, but the Substantive News/General Interest titles are more likely to have sources referenced, summarize research, report current events, and have fewer advertisements.
The focus of Popular Magazines is on general topics and topics of interest to specific groups such as music, sports, exercise, nature, gender, fashion, food, or home decorating.
Why Use a Magazine?
Characteristics of a Magazine
Purpose To inform, entertain, persuade, or promote a particular viewpoint
Content Covers broad subjects and topics of general interest
Intended Audience Written for a broad, general audience
Authors Staff writers or freelance journalists
Layout & Style Generally shorter articles than scholarly publications; eye-catching/attractive appearance – slick and glossy with a lot of images and advertisements
Text Conversational language; no discipline knowledge is assumed
References Citations usually not present; sources may be quoted but rarely provide references or bibliographies
Review Policy Reviewed by an editor
Publisher Published by commercial organizations
Frequency Generally published weekly, monthly, or semi-monthly
Availability By subscription or on newsstands
Examples of Substantive News or General Interest Periodicals
Examples of Popular Periodicals