Biology and Environmental Science

Science review articles assemble and summarize the results of research experiments published in previous primary research articles.

A science review article usually contains the following:

• Introduction

• Body paragraphs

• References

Unlike primary research articles,  science review articles usually do NOT include the following sections:

• Methods and materials

• Results

Here’s an example of a science review article.

Questions to ask yourself while reading science review articles:

• Is it current? What is the Publication date?

• Is the author an expert in his or her field? Tip: Google the author if you are unsure.

• Is the article published in an academic journal? Tip: Google the journal title to learn more about the journal.

• Have others found it useful? How many times has this article been cited?

• What is the subject area focus of the article? Tip: look at the journal title.

• Is it about my research question? Tip: Read the summary/abstract and scan the article headings before diving in.

• Do I understand this article?

If you have questions about science review articles, research, or citations, stop by the Library Service Desk or contact us here.