How to Read an Academic Article: Research Tips

Before you begin: you want to keep in mind your purpose when reviewing articles.
Why do you need the article?
What is important?

1. Subject Listings & Description

Before reading the article, read the description and subject headings provided in the library catalog. This should give you an idea about how well the article may fit into your research. If it doesn't look promising, move on to the next one.

2. Abstract

Next, read the abstract to get basic information about what the article contains. If it looks relevant, the article is worth exploring further.

3. Introduction & Conclusion

These sections give a more detailed summary than the abstract. They usually discuss the purpose of the article and the findings of the research.

4. Skim Critically

Skim the whole article with acritical eye. Pay attention to headings, subheadings, titles, etc.
Look for names, dates, terms, and claims to decide if the information in the article is useful for your paper.

5. Read the Rest

Once you have decided the article may be useful through skimming, go back and read the sections that are left.