Research 101 - Evaluate What You Find

Authority

• Who is the author? Is the page signed?

• Is the author an expert? What are his/her credentials?

• Is there a link to information about the author or sponsor of the information?

Accuracy

• Is the information reliable and error-free?

• Does someone verify the information?

• Remember: anyone can publish anything on the Web

Objectivity

• Is there evidence of bias?

• What are the goals of the author/sponsor.

• Is the information designed to sway your opinion? Does the page contain advertising?

Currency

• Is the page dated? When was it last updated?

• How current are the links?

Coverage

• Is the information in-depth? Does it appear to be complete?

• Does the page provide information not found elsewhere?

• What topics are covered?

• Is the information free or is there a fee to obtain it?

• Remember: Web coverage is often different from print coverage.