How can you tell whether you're looking at a good source or a bad one? Here are some tips:
Look at the name:
- Take a look at the web address. What is the domain?
- Typically .edu and .gov websites will have stricter guidelines about what can be published and by whom.
Find the contact information:
- Be wary of websites with no way of contacting the creators.
- Reputable authors love to be recognized for their work finding and synthesizing information for publication. Works should include the author or organization responsible for creation.
Look for sources:
- Good researchers cite their sources (even in informal writing).
- Look for links embedded in their post, mentions of the source by name, or formal footnotes/works cited. This gives you the opportunity to read the original material and see if you come to the same conclusions!
