How do you know if the information you have found is appropriate for your research?
First, be sure you know what your instructor requires for your assignment.
For example, many instructors require articles from scholarly or scientific journals.
Check with your instructor if you are confused about what kind of information to use.
Here are other issues to consider when you evaluate information:
- Credibility: Is the author an expert in the field?
- Bias: Does the source provide all opinions?
- Accuracy: Can you confirm the information in other sources?
- Currency: Is the information current or dated?
- Relevance: Is the information directly related to your research?
You might want to use these checklists when you evaluate information sources:
For more information on evaluating sources, see the Evaluating Information Tutorial.