Reading a Scholarly Article: Basics
Reading a scholarly article effectively is quite different than how you would read a novel. Most novels are intended to be read as a whole, front to back. Scholarly articles on the other hand are meant to be dissected like a pie into many different pieces, such as an Abstract, Discussion or Methods section. Skipping around in a novel would be a little confusing, but it's encouraged when reading a scholarly article.
Each Piece of the Scholarly Article Pie
Title
A brief description of the scholarly article in the form of a title. It should at least give you a general idea about what the article is about.
Abstract
A preview of the scholarly article. It should address the purpose, method and results that will be found in the article.
Introduction
Describes the purpose of the scholarly article. May provide an overview of the field and previous research in the form of a Literature Review.
Methods
Describes how the research and what type of research was conducted.
Results
Presents the outcome of the research.
Discussion
Analyzes the results to determine what potential impact it could have on the scholarly field or community.
Conclusion
Reiterates points made throughout the article, including potential for further research.
References
Works cited throughout the scholarly article by the author. The list should contain all the relevant information needed for you to find the resource for yourself.
