Below is a quick reference guide for determining if your sources are credible. Use this resource while researching for your argumentative research essay.
Examples of sources that are often the most credible:
- Official government websites (.gov)
- Institutional sites that represent universities, regulatory agencies, governing bodies, and respected organizations with specific expertise (e.g., the Mayo Clinic, .edu, .org)
- Peer-reviewed journals
- Reputable news sources
- Primary source
Examples of sources that are often considered less credible:
- Blogs
- Wikis
- Web forums
- Individual or business websites
- Materials published by an entity that may have an ulterior motive
| Factors to Consider | Least Reliable | Possibly Reliable | Most Reliable |
| Type of Source | Unfamiliar website | Published material | Official websites, institutional sites, academic journals |
| Author’s background | Uncredited (Unsure of what their background is in relation to the topic) | Educated on topic | Expert in the field |
| Date published | None listed | Outdated | Recently revised or written |
| Depth of review | Controversial reviews (may have comments about information being incorrect) | Good public response; general approval as correct | Peer-reviewed by reliable sources (i.e.: other experts on the topic) |
| Sources cited | None listed | Credible sources | Citations referencing other well-cited works |
| Objectivity | Clearly biased | Sponsored source | Balanced, neutral |
Remember, there are always exceptions! Use your best judgement and if you’re not positive that a source is credible, err on the side of caution and check it out or choose another source.