To understand how to find information in periodicals, it helps to understand how information flows from idea to dissemination. The publication cycle starts with scholars' informal research, presentations at conferences, publication in journals, indexing, and repackaging in books and/or encyclopedias. Scholarly and popular journals present the same research in different ways, and the articles are listed in various publications by indexing and abstracting services.

This guide has been broken down into tabs:

The Flow of Information defines the early ideas and information necessary for research.

The Information Cycle describes the research process from its early stages through its final, published stage.

Types of Periodicals defines what periodicals are and the different types available.