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:

  • First- or last-fold
  • Cover (front or back)
  • Title page or first page
  • Referring Web page

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 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?

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 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?

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 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.

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 I know it’s a pamphlet or brochure?

Is this word in the title or description?

  • Pamphlet
  • Brochure
  • Leaflet
  • Factsheet
  • Tract
  • Handbill
  • Flyer

What is a pamphlet or brochure?

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.