Accuracy refers to the trustworthiness of a source.
This source is the first one listed in the database/Google/catalog. Therefore, it must be the most accurate source for my needs!
Consider this:
Depending on which one of these tools you used to search for information, the results might be listed according to date, to the popularity of a source, because the source sponsors paid a fee, or any number of other factors. Just because something is first doesn't mean that it's the best result for your needs.
To Tacoma Community College for their Evaluating Sources LibGuide
Ask yourself these questions when thinking about the accuracy of a source and its information:
For instance, if you are writing a research paper about the effects of bullying on a child's self-esteem, it is important to use sources with accurate information in them.
You will want to review the source's references and double-check the information in other sources. Similarly, if you are surfing the internet for medical advice, you will want to double-check other sources to see if the information you find is accurate.
This content was originally created by Tacoma Community College Library and shared with a CC BY SA 4.0 license.