Evaluating Sources

Choosing sources for college research projects can be challenging. How do we know if a source is good? Asking thoughtful questions about the sources is the essence of evaluating information. Which ones should we be asking?

Generally speaking, we want to know about the authors, accuracy, currency, purpose, and relevance of the source for our needs. Find questions that will help you analyze these important characteristics on our Evaluate Sources web page, as well as handouts, videos, and tools for verifying information. Look for handouts about applying the CRAAP Test, RADAR evaluating information, and SCORE assessment.

Also ask yourself how you would use the source in your assignment. Will you use a source to provide some background, share as an example or exhibit, or use as an argument source? 

Developing evaluation skills that lead you to quality sources can be one of the most valuable tools that you take with you beyond college into all aspects of your life.

When using social media or surfing the web, you might do a quick Google check of the author. Doing this kind of lateral searching with an unfamiliar source could help you identify bad actors who spread conspiracy theories. This can save you time and help you make more informed decisions. It only takes 60-90 seconds. Learn more with these Fact Checking videos from CTRL-F.