What are the best strategies for evaluating source credibility?

2 Check the date

The second step is to check when the source was published or updated and whether it is still relevant and current. Is the source up to date with the latest developments, trends, and research in the field? Or is the source outdated, obsolete, or superseded by newer information? You can look for clues such as the publication date, the update date, the copyright date, or the references to other sources. You can also compare the source with other sources that cover the same topic or issue to see if there are any discrepancies or gaps.

3 Check the purpose

The third step is to check why the source was created and what is its intended purpose and audience. Is the source objective, informative, and educational? Or is the source subjective, persuasive, and promotional? You can look for clues such as the tone, language, style, and format of the source. You can also look for signs of bias, such as opinions, assumptions, emotions, exaggerations, or omissions. You can also look for indicators of quality, such as citations, references, evidence, or peer review.

4 Check the accuracy

The fourth step is to check how accurate, reliable, and valid the source is and whether it is supported by facts, data, and logic. Is the source based on sound research, methodology, and analysis? Or is the source based on speculation, hearsay, or fallacy? You can look for clues such as the sources of information, the data collection methods, the data analysis techniques, and the results and conclusions. You can also look for errors, inconsistencies, contradictions, or gaps in the source.

5 Check the coverage

The fifth step is to check how comprehensive, thorough, and balanced the source is and whether it covers all the relevant aspects, perspectives, and implications of the topic or issue. Is the source complete, detailed, and in-depth? Or is the source incomplete, superficial, or narrow? You can look for clues such as the scope, depth, length, and structure of the source. You can also look for diversity, variety, and representation of different viewpoints, sources, and stakeholders in the source.

6 Check the feedback

The sixth and final step is to check what other people think about the source and how they have responded to it. Is the source well-received, well-reviewed, and well-referenced by others? Or is the source poorly received, poorly reviewed, and poorly referenced by others? You can look for clues such as the ratings, reviews, comments, or testimonials of other users, readers, or experts. You can also look for the impact, influence, or popularity of the source, such as the number of views, shares, citations, or mentions.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?