A credible contributor might:

• Write about this topic regularly
• Have first-hand knowledge of a person
• Seen or participated in an event
• Have a degree in this field
• Do research on this topic
• Work in a related field

Tip: If a magazine author is unnamed or a member of the editorial staff, evaluate the content.

Gather these elements for your citation:

• Title
• Author
• Pages
• Magazine Name
• Publication month, day and year

• Does the author explain more than one position?
• Are statements supported by evidence?
• What names and facts can I check?
• Do a Google search to learn more about the publication’s goals and reputation.

Always check: Does this make sense, given what I already know?

A credible author may:

• Write about this topic regularly
• Work in a related field
• Have a degree in this field
• Do research on this topic
• Have first-hand knowledge
• Seen or participated in an event

Tip: If you can’t find an author’s name, look for a “consulting editor” to evaluate.

Information on countries, current events and living people changes rapidly. What is the publication date?

• Skim the database results
• Check the abstract and subject headings

Always consider: Does this provide new information or a different viewpoint?

Does Google’s search snippet include the word “magazine?”

If you’re still not sure, go to the Web site and read what the publisher says.

Here’s the same magazine article, in a database.

Clues that tell you it’s a magazine:

• Catchy title
• Magazine name listed
• Color photographs listed
• First paragraph hooks the reader

Tip: Check to see if a PDF of the print version is available.

A print article often has:

• Colorful layout
• Pictures, often with captions
• Interesting sidebars and factoids

Magazines are published regularly (periodically). They contain:

• Easy-to-understand articles on popular topics
• Interviews
• Personal stories
• Review of current events
• Reviews of products and movies