Reference Source

• Often a multi-volume work

• Usually has more than one editor and/or author

• Not a narrative structure; doesn't tell a story.  Instead, reference sources are often organized in an "entry" format

• Usually contain the letter "R" for reference in the library call number

Book

• Usually has single author, or occasionally two authors

• More of narrative structure (beginning, middle and end); often divided into chapters

Professional or Academic Journal

• Title of journal usually indicates an academic area or profession as an audience

• Usually published once a month, every other month or quarterly (spring, fall, etc)

• Usually has volume and issue number

• Articles are often lengthly

• Target audience are those in the academic field or profession

• Often uses professional vocabulary or terms

Magazine

• Titles are often recognizable (People, Newsweek, etc.)

• Usually published weekly or monthly

• Articles are shorter and aimed at a general audience