I need help evaluating sources.

Answer

One way to evaluate sources, including those on the web, is to ask yourself these five questions:

1. Currency: How up to date is the information in this site?

2. Relevance: How relevant is the information for your needs? Is it an appropriate level (not too elementary or too advanced)?

3. Authority: Who is responsible for the information in this source? What are their credentials?

4. Accuracy: Does the source provide evidence to support the information? Can it be found elsewhere?

5. Purpose: What is the purpose? Is it to teach, sell, persuade?

This test was developed by librarian Sarah Blakeslee and her team at California State University, Chico.

You may always contact a subject librarian. They will be happy to discuss sources with you and help you locate ones that are trustworthy and scholarly.

  • Last Updated Jun 22, 2021
  • Views 46
  • Answered By Karen Bouchard

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