Information is constantly changing.  Make sure your sources are up-to-date helps to ensure the information is correct.

• Check when the information was originally published, updated, and/or revised

• Aim for the most recent information (under a year is a good starting place, move back from there)

Is the content connected/important to your topic?

• Does the information relate to your topic or answer your question?

•  Who is the intended audience? Is the information at an appropriate level?

• Have you looked at a variety of sources before choosing this one?

• Would you be comfortable sharing this source with a teacher/peer?

Who is the author/publisher/source/sponsor and what are their qualifications or how are they connected to the topic?

• Check the “About the Author” information to verify if they have education or experience with this topic

•  Is the Publisher or owner of the website an organization you can trust? (i.e. National Geographic, Library of Congress…)

Do you have any reason to not trust the information?

• Is the information supported by evidence?

• Can you verify any of the information in another source?

• Are there spelling, grammar, or other typographical errors?

Why did the author share this information?

• Does the creator gain anything from you believing/agreeing with the information?

• Does the information provide all the facts or focus on one side or opinion

• Not Restricted - ANYONE can make this type of website

• Restricted - only organizations who qualify can make these types of websites (typically, but not always, more trustworthy as these organizations do not want to lose credibility