How to know if an article is peer reviewed [6 key features]
A peer reviewed article refers to a work that has been thoroughly assessed, and based on its quality, has been accepted for publication in a scholarly journal. The aim of peer reviewing is to publish articles that meet the standards established in each field. This way, peer reviewed articles that are published can be taken as models of research practices.
Features of a peer reviewed article
A peer reviewed article can be recognized by the following features:
- It is published in a scholarly journal.
- It has a serious, and academic tone.
- It features an abstract at the beginning.
- It is divided by headings into introduction, literature review or background, discussion, and conclusion.
- It includes in-text citations, and a bibliography listing accurately all references.
- Its authors are affiliated with a research institute or university.
How to find peer reviewed articles
There are many ways in which you can find peer reviewed articles, for instance:
- Check the journal's features and 'About' section. This part should state if the articles published in the journal are peer reviewed, and the type of reviewing they perform.
- Consult a database with peer reviewed journals, such as Web of Science Master Journal List, PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar, etc. Specify in the advanced search settings that you are looking for peer reviewed journals only.
- Consult your library's database, and specify in the search settings that you are looking for peer reviewed journals only.
➡️ Want to know if a source is scholarly? Check out our guide on scholarly sources.
➡️ Want to know if a source is credible? Find out in our guide on credible sources (+ how to find them).
Frequently Asked Questions about peer reviewed articles
⚽ What is the definition of 'peer reviewed'?
A peer reviewed article refers to a work that has been thoroughly assessed, and based on its quality has been accepted to be published in a scholarly journal.
⚾ Who reviews peer reviewed articles?
Once an article has been submitted for publication to a peer reviewed journal, the journal assigns the article to an expert in the field, who is considered the “peer”.
🥎 How to search peer reviewed articles?
The easiest way to find a peer reviewed article is to narrow down the search in the "Advanced search" option. Then, mark the box that says "peer reviewed".
🏀 Where can I find peer reviewed journals?
Consult a database with peer reviewed journals, such as Web of Science Master Journal List, PubMed, Scopus, etc.
🏐 Are peer reviewed articles better?
There are many views on peer reviewed articles. Take a look at Peer Review in Scientific Publications: Benefits, Critiques, & A Survival Guide for more insight on this topic.
