English 101 Research Guide: Evaluating Information

As you examine a source you think you may want to use, think about these questions to determine if and how that source may fit into your research. 

Accuracy 

• Can the factual information be easily verified? Are sources cited?
• Are they from reputable sources?
• Is the writing clear and well organized without typos, spelling, or grammatical errors?

Authority

• Who is the author or sponsor of the information and why should you believe him/her/them? (What are their credentials?)
• Is there a way to establish the legitimacy of the author or sponsor? Contact information, etc.
• Is the source affiliated with a larger, reputable organization?

Currency ​

• When was the piece first written or most recently updated?
• Is the time frame appropriate for the information needed?
• So, if you are speaking on the American Civil War women (civil war was 1861-1865), could you use a diary written by a woman in 1863? Is this a current source?

Objectivity/Purpose​

• Is any bias evident?
• Is there advertising or sponsorship?
• Is the information intended to inform or to persuade?

Scope/Coverage/Relevance ​

• What audience is the piece intended for?
• Is the information complete?

The following video shows you how to evaluate information. 

Fact-checking Web sites can help you evaluate statements and news stories. Consider the following when consulting a fact-checking Web site.

• Is the site non-partisan?
• Is documentation provided? Do references and original documents support analysis.
• What's the track record? Is there a history of reliability, recognition or awards?

Following are some nonpartisan fact-checking Web sites:

Information borrowed from : Batchelor, O. (2017). Getting out the truth: The role of libraries in the fight against fake news. Reference Services Review, 45(2), 143-148.