Evaluating sources means recognizing whether the information you use in your research is reliable, useful, and accurate. The research process includes deciding where to look, how to recognize credible sources, and how to critically assess your information. Learning how to evaluate effectively is a skill you need both for your college papers and for your life.

We are using the acronym C.L.E.A.R. as a guide - credibility, language, evidence, audience, relevance.

Questions to ask when evaluating credibility:

1. Who is the author?

   • What are their qualifications and expertise in the subject matter?
   • Do they have a history of publishing reliable and accurate information?

2. What is the publication or website?

   • Is it a reputable and well-known publisher or organization?
   • Does the publication have a history of credibility and reliability?

3. Is the information current?

   • When was the information published or last updated?
   • Is the information still relevant and accurate?

Questions to ask when evaluating language:

1. Is the language clear and concise?

   • Are the main points easy to understand?
   • Is the information free from jargon or technical terms that are not explained?
   • Is the language used neutral, or does it show signs of bias (e.g., emotionally charged words)?

2. Is the tone appropriate for the audience?

   • Does the language match the level of formality required for the topic?
   • Is the tone respectful and unbiased?
   • Does the tone suggest any bias or attempt to manipulate the audience’s emotions?

3. Are there any grammatical or spelling errors?

   • Do errors distract from the content or undermine its professionalism?
   • Is the information well-edited and polished?
   • Do errors or inconsistencies suggest a lack of credibility or bias?

Questions to ask when evaluating evidence:

1. What types of evidence are provided?

   • Are there references, statistics, or case studies that support the claims?
   • Is the evidence from credible and reliable sources?
   • Is the evidence selectively presented to support a particular bias?

2. Is the evidence relevant and sufficient?

   • Does the evidence directly support the main points?
   • Is there enough evidence to substantiate the claims made?
   • Is there any evidence that contradicts the claims, and if so, is it acknowledged?

3. How is the evidence presented?

   • Is the evidence presented in a clear and logical manner?
   • Are there visual aids (charts, graphs, tables) that help illustrate the points?
   • Are visual aids used in a way that might mislead or bias the audience?

Questions to ask when evaluating audience:

1. Who is the intended audience?

   • Is the information tailored to a specific group of people?
   • Does the content address the needs and interests of the target audience?
   • Is the information designed to appeal to a particular bias or viewpoint of the audience?

2. Does the information meet the audience’s expectations?

   • Does it provide the depth of information the audience is looking for?
   • Are the audience’s questions and concerns addressed?
   • Is the information presented in a way that reinforces the audience’s existing biases?

Questions to ask when evaluating relevance:

1. How does the information align with your needs?

   • Does it answer your specific questions or address your concerns?
   • Is it directly related to the topic you are researching or interested in?

2. Does the information add value to your understanding?

   • Does it provide new insights or perspectives?
   • Does it help you make informed decisions or enhance your knowledge?
   • Does the information challenge or reinforce your existing viewpoint?

The information on this page is an adaptation of Is it Clear: A Guide to Source Evaluation by Drake Memorial Library and is licensed under CC BY 4.0