The Parts of a Scholarly Article

Gary S. AtwoodReference Librarian / Babson Library

ABSTRACTAn abstract is just a summary of the article.

THESIS STATEMENTA thesis statement describes the problem the author is trying to solve.

METHODSThe methods section explanations how the study was conducted and who was involved.

RESULTSThe results section explains the outcome of the study.

DISCUSSIONThe discussion section is where the author compares their findings to previous research, talks about any limitations, and suggests related areas to be studied.

REFERENCESThe reference list contains all of the articles that the author cited in their article.

Language Clues

• Popular articles are usually written in more conversational language.

• Scholarly articles, on the other hand, are written in more formal language.

• Check the next slide for an example:

“When it come to staying mobile in old age, the rule seems to be: Use it or lose it.”

“… the results should not be generalized to frailer population samples such as disabled persons or nursing home patients.”

(2005). To Stay Mobile, Keep on the Move. Tufts University Health & Nutrition Letter, 23(7), 3. Retrieved from Academic Search Premier database.

POPULAR

(2005). Visser, Marjolein, Eleanor M Simonsick, Lisa H Colbert, Jennifer Brach, Susan M Rubin, Stephen B Kritchevsky, Anne B Newman, and Tamara B Harris. 2005. "Type and intensity of activity and risk of mobility limitation: the mediating role of muscle parameters." Journal Of The American Geriatrics Society 53, no. 5: 762-770. MEDLINE with Full Text, EBSCOhost (accessed September 13, 2010).

SCHOLARLY

POPULAR ARTICLES

• Usually written by staff or general writers• Reporting news• Writing to entertain• Audience is the general public

SCHOLARLY ARTICLES

• Written by one or more experts• Reporting on their own original research• Audience are other experts in their field