When critically reading an article, start with the abstract and detailed record (when available) to identify the methodologies used. Note: not all studies will use the exact same language or clues as each other or these examples.
- Start with the title and work your way down through publication type, subjects, abstract, journal subset and instrumentation.
- The author(s), journal and database want you to know what the article is, they aren't trying to trick you.
- Reviews are reviewing the research, so when you're looking at publication type if you see review AND research, review usually takes precedence.
- Mixed methods research uses qualitative AND quantitative, so remember to check for both.
- Are there other criteria for the article you're evaluating? Don't forget those too!
Think you found an article that works? Great!
Remember to read the whole article to be certain!
