Just because you see it in print or on your computer screen, do not assume it is accurate or reliable! To evaluate the credibility of an information source, these are the several key aspects to consider:
The following tables provide a framework for investigating these aspects of an information source, no matter it is an article in a journal, newspaper; a book; a website or a government document. However, not all questions will apply in all situations. These questions are intended to help you think critically about different information sources.
Questions | Answers |
Who is the author? What are the author's credentials/qualifications?
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Look in these tools for information about the author:
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What is the author's reputation among his/her peers?
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Who is the publisher?
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Does the author state the goals for his/her work? In other words, what is the publication purpose?
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Read the foreword, preface, abstract, introduction, and conclusion. |
Does the author exhibit a particular bias?
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Read the abstract and/or introduction Examine the work for
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Does the information appear to be valid and well-researched?
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Questions | Answers |
Is the information logical, well-organized and supported by evidence? Is it free from errors (both content errors and spelling/grammar errors)? |
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Questions | Answers |
Do you think there is enough evidence offered? Is the coverage comprehensive? Is it consistent with other information? Does it confirm what you know or have read about in other sources? |
Looking at the list of references in the source is an excellent way of not only understanding a work's coverage but also finding other excellent sources of research. |
Questions | Answers |
When was it published? Do you need current information? |
Topics requiring the most up-to-date information may include:
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Has the source been revised or updated in a subsequent version? | Search Library PowerSearch or other databases (e.g. Amazon.com) for more recent editions. |