A primary article in scientific literature is an original research paper that presents new findings based on experiments, observations, or data collection conducted by the authors. According to the Cornell University Library, these articles typically include a structured format with an introduction, method, results, discussion, and references sections. They report firsthand research and are often published in peer-reviewed journals. Primary articles are crucial in advancing scientific knowledge, as they provide raw data and interpretations from studies conducted by researchers.

A review article is a secondary source that summarizes, organizes, and evaluates multiple primary research articles on a particular topic. As noted in the library guide, review articles do not introduce new data, but instead analyze existing research, identify trends, highlight significant findings, and sometimes propose new theories or ideas for future research. These articles help readers understand the broader context of a research area by condensing a large volume of literature into a comprehensive overview.

The peer review process is a quality control mechanism in scientific publishing. Cornell University Library explains that when a researcher submits a manuscript to a journal, the editor first assesses the study’s methodology, validity, originality, and significance. They then send it to a group of fellow researchers in the relevant field (sometimes called referees) who assess these areas again and ask questions about the article to ensure that it meets the journal’s standards. If the article is approved, it returns to the editor to make the final decision on publishing. The article can also be rejected or approved with revisions that the author has to go back and fix before publishing. This process ensures that only high-quality, credible research is published, maintaining the integrity of scientific literature.