know if a source credible or non-credible
Know how to search for a reference through the library's database
Know how to cite a reference in MLA form
Understand the proper way to use AI with citation
know how to avoid plagiarism
This guide features information from Academia-Research and Scribbr.
Credible/Non-Credible Sources
A credible source is free from bias and backed up with evidence. It is written by a trustworthy author or organization. There are a lot of sources out there, and it can be hard to tell what’s credible and what isn’t at first glance. Unreliable sources don’t always contain true, accurate, and up-to-date information. Using these sources in academic writing can result in discrediting writers’ status. That’s why it is extremely important to use credible and reliable sources only. This guide will help you in evaluating whether a source is credible or not.
What sources can be considered as credible?
What sources should be avoided?
Wikipedia can never be considered as a reliable source of information since it can be edited by anyone. However, it can be used when you are first trying to understand the topic. Moreover, there are lots of further links and references that can be useful when doing a research or writing academic papers. (Speak with your instructor before using Wikipedia.)
How do I know if a source is reliable or not?
Always ask yourself the following questions in order to determine if a source is credible or not.
1. Who is the author?Reliable sources are always written by well-known and respected authors. These sources are always properly and accurately referenced. Therefore, when checking the source’s credibility you can find more information for your own research.
2. When was the material published?Generally, books published in 1990s contain outdated information. Hence, you are expected to use materials published not later than 10 years ago. Subjects like medicine change rapidly. Always make sure your material is current.
3. What is the purpose of a source?
Always try to evaluate if the source presents clear and unbiased information or if its aim is to alter and persuade one’s views. A source written from a specific point of view may still be credible, but it can limit the coverage of a topic to a particular side of a debate.
4. How is this source proved?
Try to avoid sources that don’t have references or evidence to prove its point of view. Always make sure, if the source provides support to the given claims.
5. What type of audience is this source aimed at?
Always take into account what type of sources your audience will value. For example, as credible sources, if you are writing for an academic audience, they will definitely prefer peer-reviewed journals and scholarly papers.
6.Use the CRAAP method to evaluate your sources?
Who is the author/publisher/source/sponsor?
What are the author's credentials or organizational affiliations?
Is the author qualified to write on the topic?
Is there contact information, such as a publisher or email address?
Does the URL reveal anything about the author or source?
.ac.uk = Academic institutions in the UK
.com = Commercial sites
.edu = Educational institutions
.gov = Government
.nhs.uk = Health information services in the UK
.org = Non-profit organizations
.mil = Military
.net = Network.
7. What is another way to evaluate?
Use the SIFT method:
Take a moment to look up the author and source publishing the information.
What can you find about the author/website creators?
What is their mission? Do they have vested interests? Would their assessment be biased?
Do they have authority in the area?
use lateral reading to see if you can find other sources corroborating the same information or disputing it.
What coverage is available on the topic?
Keep track of trusted news sources.
Many times, fact checkers have already looked into the claims. These fact-checkers are often nonpartisan, nonprofit websites that try to increase public knowledge and understanding by fact checking claims to see if they are based on fact or if they are biased/not supported by evidence.
The final step is to Trace Claims, Quotes, and Media to their Original Context.
When an article references a quote from an expert, or results of a research study, it is good practice to attempt to locate the original source of the information. Click through the links to follow the claims to the original source of information. Open up the original reporting sources listed in a bibliography if present
Was the claim, quote, or media fairly represented?
Does the extracted information support the original claims in the research?
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