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Gateway Campus Library

Gateway - How to Research

Evaluating Sources

Use the C.L.E.A.R. method:

Developed and created by the librarians at SUNY Brockport Drake Memorial Library, this new tool offers a concise way to assess and evaluate sources that students use by asking key questions related to each criteria:

  • Credibility - Is the author qualified and an expert in the subject matter?  Are the methods used to collect data transparent?
  • Language -  Is the language clear and concise?  Are there any misspellings or grammatical errors?
  • Evidence - What types of evidence are provided? Ex. statistics, references or case studies.  Does the evidence support or contradict the information? If so, is there any acknowledgment?
  • Audience - Does the style engage or lean to the biases of its audience? Are the audience’s questions and concerns addressed?
  • Relevance -Is it relevant to the current time and circumstances?  Does the information add value to your understanding?