Academic Writing Guide

As noted earlier in this guide, the terms "academic writing" and "scholarly writing" are often used interchangeably. In the Academic Writing section, we discussed many of the similarities, but there are some nuances that can set them apart. Here are a few elements typically found in scholarly writing that might not always be present in more general academic writing:

1. Peer Review: Scholarly articles are usually peer-reviewed, meaning they have been evaluated by experts in the field before publication. This process ensures the quality and credibility of the research.
2. Original Research: Scholarly writing often includes original research, experiments, or studies conducted by the authors. This is less common in general academic writing, which might focus more on summarizing existing knowledge.
3. Extensive Citations: Scholarly articles typically have extensive citations and references to other scholarly works, demonstrating a deep engagement with existing research. Academic writing might not always require such a comprehensive bibliography.
4. Specialized Language: Scholarly writing often uses highly specialized terminology and jargon specific to the field of study, which might not be as prevalent in broader academic writing.
5. Detailed Methodology: In scholarly writing, the methodology section is usually very detailed, allowing other researchers to replicate the study. This level of detail might not be necessary in all types of academic writing.
6. Publication in Journals: Scholarly writing is often published in academic journals, which have strict guidelines and standards. Academic writing can include a wider range of formats, such as essays, reports, and theses.