A pamphlet or brochure is "nonperiodical," that is, not published on a regular schedule like a magazine or journal.
It is often posted online as a PDF so that it will print attractively.
How do I know it's a pamphlet or brochure?
Is this word in the title or description?
Pamphlet
Brochure
Leaflet
Factsheet
Tract
Handbill
Flyer
How does a pamphlet or brochure differ from a book?
The length and format of a pamphlet or brochure is a less substantial than a book. Characteristically, it contains:
Fewer pages
Stapled, folded or stitched pages
A paper cover (rather than bound in boards)
Subheadings rather than chapters
How do a pamphlet, brochure and leaflet differ?
Pamphlet: Stitched or stapled pages (less than 80) with a paper cover. Sometimes a pamphlet is an essay, treatise or tract on a religious or political topic of current interest.
Brochure: A stitched, stapled or folded (bifold, trifold) booklet or pamphlet which may cover product information or promotional material.
Leaflet: A printed and folded single sheet of paper (e.g., handbill, flyer) usually distributed free.
Why publish a pamphlet or brochure?
This informal medium enables rapid publishing of brief information in an attractive format that can quickly and economically be revised.
How can I evaluate a brochure or pamphlet?
Why is the purpose of this publication?
Inform (e.g., appliance warrantee, museum exhibit list of artworks)
Explain (e.g., product manual, how to knit a sweater)
Persuade (e.g., why adopt a healthy lifestyle, a political candidate's view on an issue)
How does the organization's purpose affect the presentation or omission of information?
How do I fact-check the information?
Follow the trail of evidence to see who is quoted or what is referenced:
Is the original source accurately represented?
Is data presented fully or "cherry picked" to suppress contradictory evidence?
Are the sources credible and relevant?
How strong is the evidence? If there is a study or poll, is the sample size large enough to represent the population accurately?
How do I evaluate the argument?
What is the main idea?
Is strong evidence presented to support the claims?
Do the conclusions follow logically from the analysis?
Could I interpret things differently?
Whose perspective might be missing?
How does this source fit?
Does it add another dimension to the topic?
Does the information make sense, given what I already know?
Why is this pamphlet published by this organization?
How does it fit with the purpose and goals of this group?
Read "About," "Overview," "Mission," "Press Info"
Who funds, supports, or sponsors this group?
Tip: Search [link:URL] to see who refers to this information and what they say.
How do I cite a pamphlet or brochure?
Since there is no standard publishing format for a pamphlet or brochure, citation elements might be found on the: