What defines a peer-reviewed journal?

A peer-reviewed journal is characterized by its rigorous editorial process, where articles submitted for publication are evaluated by experts in the same field prior to publication. This system is designed to ensure that the research is original, scientifically sound, and contributes meaningfully to the existing body of knowledge. Reviewers assess the methodology, validity of the results, and the significance of the findings, providing constructive feedback to authors. This process helps maintain high academic standards and integrity in scholarly communication.

Publications with articles written by students typically do not undergo this level of scrutiny and therefore do not fit the definition of a peer-reviewed journal. Similarly, magazines aimed at general audiences or personal reflection journals lack the scholarly focus and rigorous review process that define peer-reviewed literature.