Some are in between. As you apply the criteria below, you will learn how to recognize the differences in intended audience and purpose that are the keys to determining where a particular publication falls on the continuum. Popular publications are intended for a non-specialist audience , and their primary purpose is to entertain . In the case of popular magazines, their underlying purpose may be to deliver a market to advertisers. This can affect content.
Popular magazines are similar to commercial television programs.
However, the information is presented in language that almost any adult can easily understand, and complex concepts and issues are simplified. Articles aren't very long, and there are colorful graphics, sidebars, and other attention grabbing features. Sources are rarely cited, and articles may not be signed. Some popular publications are for the hobbyist. These are more specialized than other popular publications because they use the terminology of the particular hobby, and they may have fairly technical information.