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Types of Sources

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Distinguishing between sources when you're searching in Search@UW or the databases can be trickier than when you're looking at a print or web version. Limiters can help, but here are some tips to help you determine the type of source you're viewing. Keep in mind the examples below do not reflect the variety of database interfaces available.

Is it a journal article?

What to look for:

  • Both an article and journal title
  • Volume and issue numbers
  • Long, usually 6+ pages
  • Labeled as peer-reviewed
  • Usually has a DOI number

When viewing in Search@UW:
Record showing the title of the article and journal, the volume and issue, and a peer reviewed icon

When viewing in a database, such as Environment Complete:
Record showing the title of the article; the journal's title, date, volume and issue; and a DOI

In some databases, you can click on the journal's title to find out more about it:
Screenshot shows clicking on a journal's title in Environment Complete goes to a publication details page showing that it is an academic journal that is peer reviewed

If you're not sure what you're looking at, try a Google search for the source's name and read more about it:
Google results for Journal of Great Lakes Research, stating that it is published six times per year and is multidisciplinary