what is a credible website?

http://lib.nmsu.edu/instruction/eval.html

Read the Criteria section here.

http://hanlib.sou.edu/searchtools/evaluate.html
And this, too.

These sites explain how to evaluate websites.

http://mason.gmu.edu/~montecin/web-eval-sites.htm

http://credibility.stanford.edu/guidelines/index.html

A credible website is one that provides accurate, reliable, and trustworthy information. When determining the credibility of a website, it is important to consider several factors:

1. Website domain: Start by examining the website's domain. Generally, websites with domains such as .edu (educational institutions), .gov (government organizations), or .org (non-profit organizations) are regarded as more credible. These domains indicate that the content is published by reputable sources.

2. Authoritative sources: Look for websites that cite their sources and provide references for the information presented. Credible websites often rely on reputable sources, such as academic journals, scientific studies, or well-known news organizations. Check if the author or organization has expertise or authority in the subject matter.

3. Design and functionality: Credible websites usually have a professional design and a user-friendly interface. They have clear navigation, minimal distractions, and well-organized content. Poor web design, excessive pop-ups, or numerous spelling and grammatical errors can be red flags that the information might not be trustworthy.

4. Bias and objectivity: Credible websites strive for objectivity and present information from a balanced perspective. They avoid promoting personal opinions or agendas. Look for signs of unbiased reporting or presentation of facts and consider cross-referencing information from multiple sources to verify its accuracy.

5. Timeliness and updates: Current and up-to-date information is crucial, especially for topics that evolve or change rapidly. Check if the website provides the date of publication or last update. Outdated websites may not reflect the most recent understanding of a subject.

While these guidelines can help assess the credibility of a website, it is still important to exercise critical thinking skills and verify information from multiple sources to form a well-rounded understanding.