Search & Evaluate

Tips For Evaluating Sources:

•  Proceed with caution when using websites with excessive pop-up ads, sensational click-bait headlines, or no author associated with the article. If the author is anonymous, that should raise suspicions!

•  If there is an author, check their qualifications.  Are they an expert on this topic and what are their credentials?  

•  Are there any citations listed and references? Reliable information should always be backed by valid sources. Does the article include links to reputable studies, reports, or well-known news outlets?

•  What are your own biases?  Understand how your biases might influence your perception of information.  Be open-minded and open to self-reflection.

•  Look at the language and tone. Dramatic or exaggerated language that is emotionally charged and antagonistic can be a sign of biased or false content.

•  Lastly, cross-reference information. Is the information the same message from multiple sources? Consistency among reliable sources may indicate the information is accurate!

Use a fact-checking site to learn more about the credibility of a news article or claim.