Magazines, journals, and newspapers collectively known as periodicals are an excellent source for current events. Like the books, periodicals cover a wide range of subjects. In addition, you will be able to find editorials and commenteries about a wide range of subjects.

Scholarly vs. Popular Periodicals. Scholarly journals are usually associated with a learning institution or a professional organization. The articles in scholarly journals very often contain works cited lists (something you are not likely to find in a popular magazine). You can use these works cited lists to find more sources. Some examples of scholarly journals include Journal of American History, Journal of Business, and Engineering Economist. Popular magazines such as Time, People, and Cosmopolitan may provide you with some valuable information but the level of scholarship might not be adequate if you are writing a scholarly research paper.