Canvas Content Repository: How to Read Journal Articles

Scholarly journal articles are often long, dense, and complicated. It often takes a couple of readings to get everything out of one. By approaching them strategically, you can make the process much easier and more efficient.

Reading Order

1. Abstract (summary)
   • Is the article relevant enough to read in detail?
   • If it was assigned to you, the abstract will help you get an overview of the article before you dive in
2. Introduction and/or literature review
   • What is the article's purpose? What questions will it answer?
   • What other research has been done on this topic? What is the context for this author's work?
3. Discussion and/or conclusion
   • What are the author's key takeaways from their research? What was most important?
   • What additional questions need to be answered in future research?
4. Go back and read the parts you skipped.
   • Methodology and results 
     • Are the sample size, variables, and controls appropriate?
     • Look over any charts, tables, or other data provided.
   • Limitations section (if there is one).
     • What can or can't this research accomplish, according to the authors?
5. Works cited or references
   • Which related sources might be useful for your research?

Other Considerations

• Investigate the author's affiliation or institution.
  • Do they have appropriate authority and credentials?  
• Check for funding sources, corporate sponsorship, and affiliations.
  • Are there factors that reduce the integrity of the work?
• Look for retractions and related commentary articles.
  • Has the research been refuted since publication? How was it controversial?