Evaluating Web Resources

The internet has much potential as a research tool. However, not all information on the internet is reliable. the following guidelines, adapted from the University of Texas library system, will help you evaluate web sources when you are doing research.

Your knowledge:

• How does this information compare with what you already know?
• How does it change what you know?

Authority:

• Who is providing this information?
• Where did their information come from?
• Do they provide evidence or examples to support their points?

Time:

• How old is this information?
• Does the site include recent information?

Scope:

• How much information is given?
• How broad is the topic?
• How in-depth is the information?

Clarity:

• Is the information clearly presented?
• Is the information well-organized?
• Is the site user-friendly?

Validity:

• How true do you think this information is? What makes you think so?

Importance:

• Is this information important? If so, why?

Recommendations:

• Have people whom you respect (teachers, librarians, parents, friends) recommended this site as a good source of information?