How can I tell if the article I found is a primary research study?
Answer
A quick review of the abstract and content of the article will allow you to determine if it is primary research. Read the objective or aim provided and note whether the author is describing the content of his or her study. Look for headings that match the familiar components of a research study – terms like objectives, method, data analysis, results, conclusions, etc. This usually indicates a primary study.
Note that all primary studies will also include some information in the Introduction or Background section that describes previous work done by other researchers. They will often summarize and quote from several studies to describe what is already known about the topic before they begin to describe their own research. This is often called a Review of Literature.
Databases like CINAHL and Medline also contain other publications that are not actual research studies. You may see informative articles, industry reports, editorials, etc.
Bonus Hint: The CINAHL database lets you limit your search to research studies only. Go to the Advanced Search options and click on the checkbox called Research Articles.