How do I find peer-reviewed sources?
Answer
Finding peer-reviewed sources involves using reliable research tools and verifying the publication's scholarly status. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
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Use Library Databases
- Access your institution's library website and navigate to the databases section.
- Common databases with peer-reviewed articles include:
- EBSCO Discovery Service or EBSCOhost
- PubMed
- CINAHL (for nursing and health sciences)
- Look for a filter or checkbox to limit results to "Peer-Reviewed" or "Scholarly" sources.
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Search in Google Scholar
- Go to Google Scholar.
- Use specific keywords for your topic.
- Not all results are peer-reviewed, so cross-check the journal or article using the methods below.
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Check the Journal's Website
- If you have the journal name, visit its website.
- Look for information under sections like "About," "Editorial Policies," or "Submission Guidelines" to confirm the peer-review process.
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Look for Indicators in the Article
- Abstract and Structure: Peer-reviewed articles often include an abstract and sections like Introduction, Methodology, Results, and Discussion.
- References: A robust reference list is a hallmark of scholarly work.
- Author Credentials: Authors are typically experts or researchers affiliated with institutions.
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Ask Your Librarian
- Librarians can guide you to appropriate databases and help you refine your search.