English

Should you use that source?

Evaluating sources in an academic context

Reliability & Relevance: these are the two main areas to investigate when you evaluate a source.

1. Reliability: is this source reliable and trustworthy?

Ask things like:

• who wrote it (for example, what are their credentials in this area?)
• does the communicated information benefit from clearly identifies sources/facts, and, if yes, are they provided?
• is the information outdated?
• does the type of source match with the information you're seeking from it (for example, an encyclopedia article overviews a topic rather than focusing on specific study details)
• is bias, systemic racism, and/or misused information a concern?

2. Relevance: is the source is reliable, turn your attention to whether the source is relevant to your topic and your plan for exploring the topic in your assignment.

Ask things like:

• does the source help you understand the topic?
• can you use specific information from the source to write your assignment?
• does the information allow you to make meaningful connections or offer clear explanations in your assignment?

3. Use in your assignment or research: If the source is both reliable and relevant then it passed! Now think about the best way to incorporate the source (for example, direct quotation versus paraphrasing) and don't forget to cite it!

Evaluating sources can be complex and confusing. Don't hesitate to ask for your help at library.macewan.ca/help