What Makes a Source "Good"
“Good” sources include those that provide current (not obsolete) information that is is reliable, credible, and can be verified through other sources or evidence. Sometimes an author will share information on a new area of study, but typically a review process by other experts in the relevant field helps to ensure that the findings are credible.
The context of the source is also important. What are you using the information for, and does it make sense for your context to use the particular source?
Evaluating Sources Using Lateral Reading
The SIFT approach to evaluating sources helps you determine credibility.
Lateral Reading (SIFT): fact-checking by examining other sources and internet fact-checking tools; and
The SIFT method was created by Mike Caulfield under a CC BY 4.0 International License.
SIFT
Learn more about lateral reading as a way to evaluate sources and about the Stanford Study.
Online Verification Skills - Video 1: Introductory Video
Online Verification Skills - Video 2: Investigate the Source
Activity
At your tables, we'll complete a brief activity on evaluating sources.
- I'll assign each table a group number.
- One person at each table should click on the appropriate link and make a copy of the Doc.
- That person should share the Doc with the other group members.
- Follow the instructions on the Doc and make notes about your findings.
- Choose someone in your group to report out at the end of the activity.
Non-partisan fact-checkers
Check these sources to see if they have fact-checked claims before you use or share information:
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factcheck.org From the Annenberg Public Policy Center, University of Pennsylvania.