Step 3. Evaluate Analyze information and sources
Evaluate Sources | Primary v Secondary Sources | Types of Periodicals
When doing research, you should be using a variety of sources such as websites, books or articles from newspapers/magazines/journals. But, how do you know if the information is reliable? To ensure you are only including valid information in your research assignments, evaluate your sources using the criteria below or use this handout (PDF).
Authority
Determining the author for a source is important in deciding whether information is credible. The author should show some evidence of being knowledgeable, reliable and truthful.
Questions to consider
Who is the author (person, company, organization, etc.)?
Does the source provide any information that leads you to believe the author is an expert on the topic?
Can you describe the author's background (experience, education, knowledge)?
Does the author provide citations? Do you think they are reputable?
Coverage
While not all sources claim to be comprehensive, some only cover specific aspects of an issue or topic. It is important to look at the depth of coverage to determine whether the website is applicable to your research question and if the information you need is available from this source.
Questions to consider
To what extent does the source answer your research question?
What is missing from this source? What additional information do you need?
Currency
Some written works are ageless, such as classic literature, while other works like technological news become outdated very quickly. It is important to determine when the information was created and if it is pertinent to your research.
Questions to consider
When was the source written and published?
Has it been updated recently?
Objectivity/Bias
It is important to recognize that every author has an opinion or viewpoint. Recognizing this perspective is instrumental in determining if the information presented is objective or biased. For example, authors pretending to be objective may really be trying to persuade, promote or sell something.
Questions to consider
What is the purpose or motive for the source (educational, commercial, entertainment, promotional, etc.)?
Who is the intended audience?
Style and Functionality
Once you have evaluated the content of the source, the style and functionality may not be a concern. However, if the source is not well-organized, its value is diminished.
Questions to consider
Is the source well-written and organized?
To what extent is it professional looking?
If it is a website, can you navigate around easily?
Miami