How do I know if an article is peer reviewed?
Answer
Is It Peer Reviewed?
An article is peer reviewed when a jury of experts in the same field as the author review and approve the contents of the article through a formal editorial process. Peer-reviewed articles can also be called "scholarly" or "refereed."
You can find tens of thousands of peer-reviewed journals in the ACE Library. In addition, peer-reviewed articles can be found using Google Scholar, and many government and association websites feature a "Resources" section that may also have links to peer-reviewed articles.
1. Filter your search
When searching in ACE OneSearch, make sure you check the "peer reviewed" box at the top of the page or under the "All Filters" menu to limit your search to peer-reviewed articles only. They are marked with a yellow icon in ACE OneSearch.
2. Check the Publication Finder
Click the Journals button on the library home page, and enter the title of the journal in the search field. If we subscribe to the journal, it will say if it is peer reviewed above the title with a yellow icon.
3. Check the database
In a database, find the "Publications" link (usually at the top of the page). If the journal is listed there, it should say whether it is peer reviewed in the description.
4. Check the journal's website
On a journal's website, look for the journal description or "About" section. You can also review the submission guidelines. If the article goes through a formal review process, you know it is peer reviewed.
5. Ask a librarian
If you're still not sure if an article is considered peer reviewed, just ask us! We are happy to help you figure it out. Email us at library@ace.libanswers.com.