Identifying theintended audience for information is one step in evaluating information. The descriptions of types of information below can apply equally to periodicals, books, and web pages.
Scholarly or Academic
Few illustrations other than charts and graphs
Articles written by scholars or researchers in the field, often faculty with Ph.Ds
Almost always lists sources and/or includes a bibliography
Reports on original research or experimentation
Often published by a university press, research center or professional association
May be scholarly because of the credentials of the writers, but targeted towards students
Examples of periodicals: Fashion Theory, Domus, Art History, Art Bulletin, Journal of the American Medical Association
Professional
Written for (and usually by) people in a specific line of work
Assumes knowledge of the field
Not usually available on the newsstand
Only sometimes lists sources or includes bibliography
Often published by a professional association
Examples of periodicals: American Libraries, Playthings, Communication Arts, Animation Magazine
Substantive News
Often glossy in appearance with color illustrations
Sometimes list sources or includes bibliography
Usually available on the newsstand
Articles are usually signed
Level of writing geared to educated or well-read audience
Sometimes difficult to distinguish between this and "Academic"
Examples of periodicals: National Geographic, Art in America, Artforum, Wall Street Journal, Discover
Popular
Easily purchased on newsstands, bookstores or available for free via the Internet
Geared towards general audiences
Articles written by staff writers or freelance writers
Slick or glossy (in print version), with lots of advertising
Seldom includes list of sources
Examples of periodicals: People, Sports Illustrated, Vogue, Rolling Stone
Sensational
Variety of styles, but often newspaper format when in print
Language is elementary and occasionally inflammatory or sensational
Purpose is to arouse curiosity and to cater to popular superstitions
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