Skip to Main Content
University of Phoenix logo
University Library

Evaluate Sources

Never before has it been easier to locate information! The volumes of information available through the University Library and on the internet is staggering – and overwhelming. Not all sources are appropriate for your paper/project. Before you throw up your hands and say “I’ll just Google it!”, consider the tips in this guide to help you evaluate sources and determine if they are appropriate.

Giving a Critical Eye to Your Sources

Consider the guidelines below when you assess your sources. Ask yourself the questions posed to evaluate the resources for currency, relevancy, accuracy, authority, and purpose.

CURRENCY: The timeliness of the information.

Ask Yourself:

  • When was the information published or posted?
  • Has the information been revised or updated?
  • Does your topic require current information, or will older sources work as well?
  • Are the links functional?

RELEVANCE: The importance of the information for your needs.

Ask Yourself:

  • Does the information relate to your topic or answer your question?
  • Who is the intended audience?
  • Is the information at an appropriate level (i.e., not too elementary or advanced for your needs)?
  • Have you looked at a variety of sources before determining this is one you will use?
  • Would you be comfortable citing this source in your research paper?

ACCURACY: The reliability, truthfulness, and correctness of the content.

Ask Yourself:

  • From where does the information originate?
  • Is the information supported by evidence?
  • Has the information been reviewed or refereed?
  • Can you verify any of the information in another source or from personal knowledge?
  • Does the language or tone seem unbiased and free of emotion?
  • Are there any spelling, grammar, or typographical errors?

AUTHORITY: The source of the information.

Ask Yourself:

  • 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? Examples: .com .edu .gov .org .net

PURPOSE: The reason the information exists.

Ask Yourself:

  • What is the purpose of the information? Is it to inform, teach, sell, entertain, or persuade?
  • Do the authors/sponsors make their intentions or purpose clear?
  • Is the information fact, opinion, or propaganda?
  • Does the point of view appear objective and impartial?
  • Are there political, ideological, cultural, religious, institutional, or personal biases?
Choosing Sources For Your Paper (01:45)
Learn how to use the CRAAP method to determine if a source is a good choice to use in your research.