One of the most important characteristics of a good source is credibility. A source that was written by a reputable author or published by a trusted organization is a credible source. Assess whether the source is written for an academic audience or a general audience. A source that is meant for a readership of experts has more credibility than a source that was written for popular consumption. For a research paper, it is best to use scholarly sources that are intended for the academic world.
An author’s credentials are an important factor in determining the value of a source. Look for sources that are written by experts in the field or topic of research. Any books or journals published by universities are usually seen as both credible and authoritative. Another indication of authority is whether or not the material is peer-reviewed. For Internet sources, check which resources were used in creating the Web page or article. If a promising source is found, look for other respected and reputable sites that mention that source.
Find the date that a source was published. The most recent information on a topic is usually the most widely accepted and respected. This depends on the topic, but most topics evolve quickly. Science and industry are some of the fastest changing fields, and new information can replace the old in a matter of months.
Evaluate sources carefully, especially Internet sources. Critical thinking skills are a necessity when considering research paper sources. Pay attention to how well-written a source is. If it’s an Internet source, look at how recently the information was revised. Research the author. Checking out an author’s background can provide clues as to whether her work would be regarded as credible and authoritative. Determine whether the article or book contains biased information. If the source is written in an attempt to persuade people to think one way or the other about an issue or topic, the source is likely biased. Look for sources written from an objective point-of-view.
When a good source is established, look for the sources that were used in creating that information. If one source has been referenced in several other sources, the first source is probably considered authoritative. Check the works cited or bibliography for this source, and it should lead you to more helpful resources.