Criteria for Evaluating Information Sources                                                                  Contact Us
There are many things to consider when choosing information sources. Evaluation requires you to make judgments about the quality of the sources you use. Whether the information is found in print or on the Web, you still need to choose your resources carefully by looking at them from a variety of angles.

This list is a starting point for things to think about as you choose sources; you may think of other criteria important to your specific project.

Accuracy
  • Is the information reliable and error-free?
  • Is there an editor or someone who verifies or checks the information? Is it peer-reviewed?
  • Are the sources of the information given?

Authority

  • Is there an author or sponsoring body (organization, company) and is the name of the author or sponsoring body listed?
  • Is the author qualified? An expert?
  • Who is the sponsor or publisher? What reputation do they have?

Objectivity - Does the information show bias?

  • What is the purpose of the information? To inform? Persuade? Advertise? Entertain?
  • Does the source show political or cultural bias?

Currency - When was the piece written or created?

  • Is it current?
  • Does it reflect the time period you are researching?

Coverage (or Scope) - Does the content provide the evidence or information you need?

  • Is it written for the appropriate audience? (professional, average adult, child)
  • Is it suitable for your level of understanding? (too simple, too difficult)
  • Does it cover the topic well enough for your needs?
  • Is it in an appropriate format?

If you find a source lacking in many of these areas, keep searching! Contact a librarian if you need help evaluating a resource.