Evaluate Search Results
The points below are applicable to all source types. Note that evaluating information found on the web has additional challenges:
Accuracy
- Can the provided information be verified elsewhere? Are footnotes/ bibliographies or references provided? How reliable are these sources?
- Is there an editor or someone else who verifies the information?
- Does the page/document include a description of research methods and data?
- Has the site been referred to by others?
Authority
- Is the author identified, and the is site authored or published by a person / agency that has appropriate qualifications?
- Does the site represent a non-profit organization (.org), company (.com), educational institution (.edu), or government agency (.gov)?
- Is there a link to the organization’s page or a means for contacting the organization or author?
Objectivity
- Does the web page show bias or inflammatory language?
- Does the site include advertising?
- What is the primary purpose of the site? Does the website sell a product/service, or advance a political view? Look for a statement describing the purpose or coverage of this source – "mission statement," “About Us,” or “FAQs.”
Currency
- Is there a date indicating when the document was created, and last updated?
- Are links current?
Scope / Purpose / Coverage
- Is this a comprehensive resource, or is the information too narrow for your research requirements?
- Does the material meet the information need?
