What Is a Popular Source?
Popular sources are commercial publications with a purpose to entertain general-audience readers, often providing commentary, news, or opinions about popular culture topics (i.e. Time, Vogue, People, etc.). Articles are typically accompanied by graphic design elements or photographs and advertisements, don't necessarily cite sources, and are written by journalists, staff writers, or freelance writers. They are best used to learn about a topic broadly, as well as follow popular culture and/or current events.
How to Identify Popular Sources
- Attention grabbing title - sometimes directly addressing the reader.
- Byline is easy to find - often the author is a staff writer or freelance writer.
- The tone of the text is conversational and directed at a general audience.
- Commercial publication - will push for subscribers and have prominent advertisements.
- [Not pictured in the figure] The article will be accompanied by photographs or graphic designs, illustrations, etc. to grab a reader's attention.
