What makes a source effective
1. Credibility: A source is effective when it is credible, meaning it is reliable and trustworthy. Credible sources are based on accurate information from reputable authors or organizations.
2. Relevance: An effective source is relevant to the topic or subject being researched. It provides information or data that directly supports or adds to the understanding of the topic.
3. Authority: A source is effective when the author or creator has expertise or authority in the field or subject matter being discussed. They should have the necessary qualifications, experience, or knowledge to be considered an authority on the topic.
4. Objectivity: An effective source presents information in an unbiased and objective manner. It avoids personal opinions or biases and presents the facts or findings without any manipulation or distortion.
5. Timeliness: A source is effective when it is up-to-date and current. It should reflect the most recent research and information available in the field.
6. Clarity and cohesiveness: An effective source presents information in a clear and organized manner, making it easy for the reader to understand and follow the main ideas or arguments.
7. Peer-reviewed: In academic or scientific research, an effective source is often peer-reviewed, meaning it has undergone scrutiny and evaluation by experts in the field. This ensures the quality and validity of the information.
8. References and citations: An effective source includes references or citations to other reputable sources that support the information presented. This allows for further verification and validation of the claims or findings.
9. Consistency: An effective source should be consistent with other credible sources on the same topic. It should align with the existing body of knowledge and not contradict widely accepted information or theories.
10. Accessibility: An effective source should be readily accessible to the target audience, whether it is available online, in libraries, or through other means. It should be easy to locate and retrieve the information, ensuring that it can be used effectively for research or reference purposes.