Evaluating sources: Accuracy

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:

1. Is the information repeated anywhere else in your other sources?
2. Does the source include references that clearly indicate where the author found his or her data?

Your tasks:

• Review the source's references
• Double-check the information in other sources. Can the information be corroborated in any other source?

Sometimes, the accuracy of a source will be very important.

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.

Double-checking sources

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.