Source bias is when information is presented in a way that unfairly favors a particular perspective, opinion, or group. In your research, recognizing bias is important because it helps you decide whether a source is trustworthy, balanced, and useful for your work. Authors may show bias through selective facts, emotional language, or by leaving out important viewpoints, so it’s important to read critically and question what you’re seeing.

Checklist to Evaluate Source Bias:

• Who is the author or organization, and what are their credentials?

• What is the purpose of the source (inform, persuade, sell, entertain)?

• Is the language neutral or does it use strong/emotional wording?

• Are multiple viewpoints presented or just one side?

• Are facts supported with evidence and credible sources?

• Is anything important left out or ignored?

• Who is the intended audience?