Evaluating Sources

In an era of information overload, distinguishing credible sources from unreliable ones is essential. Your arguments are only as strong as the evidence supporting them. Using weak or biased sources undermines your credibility and can lead to flawed conclusions.

Source evaluation isn't about dismissing everything that doesn't come from an academic journal. It's about understanding each source's strengths and limitations so you can use it appropriately. Even biased sources can be valuable when analyzed critically.

The CRAAP test provides a systematic framework for evaluating sources. Developed by librarians at California State University, Chico, it helps you assess Currency, Relevance, Authority, Accuracy, and Purpose.

Web sources require extra scrutiny. Check the domain: .edu and .gov sites are often reliable, but .com and .org vary widely. Look for an "About" page that explains the organization's mission and funding. Be wary of sites that lack author information or transparency about their purpose.

Cross-reference claims with other sources. If a website makes dramatic claims that no one else reports, treat it with skepticism. Check when the page was last updated—outdated information may no longer be accurate.

Peer-reviewed sources have been evaluated by experts in the field before publication. This process helps ensure accuracy and quality, though it's not perfect. Look for peer-reviewed status in database search filters or journal information pages.

Not all scholarly sources are peer-reviewed. Books, conference papers, and working papers may be valuable but haven't undergone the same scrutiny. Consider the author's credentials and the publisher's reputation when evaluating non-peer-reviewed scholarly work.

Even peer-reviewed sources can contain errors or biases. Read critically, considering methodology, sample sizes, and whether conclusions are supported by evidence. No single source should be accepted uncritically.

All sources have some perspective or bias—the goal isn't to find perfectly neutral sources but to recognize and account for bias. Consider who funded the research, what organization published it, and what the author's affiliations suggest about their perspective.

Bias isn't always obvious. Look for loaded language, one-sided presentations of issues, or selective use of evidence. Compare multiple sources on the same topic to identify where they agree and disagree—disagreements often reveal underlying biases.