When using a website as a research source, what should you look for to find out if that website is credible?

Here are two websites that will help you determine credibility:

From Southern Oregon University's librarians:
http://hanlib.sou.edu/searchtools/evaluate.html

From New Mexico State University's librarians:
http://lib.nmsu.edu/instruction/eval.html
Go through Criteria first, then the Examples.

When evaluating the credibility of a website as a research source, there are several factors you should look for. Here are some key points to consider:

1. Authoritative sources: Start by checking if the website provides the author's credentials or affiliations. Look for expertise, qualifications, or experience in the field related to the topic you are researching. Reliable websites usually include this information in the "About" or "Contact" section.

2. Accuracy and verifiability: Verify the accuracy of the information provided on the website by cross-referencing it with other reputable sources. Look for citations, references, or links to external sources supporting the claims made. Websites that cite reliable sources and provide evidence are often more credible.

3. Currency and relevance: Check if the website's content is up-to-date and relevant to your research. Outdated information may be misleading or incorrect. Look for recent publication dates or any other indicators of currency, such as frequent updates or mentions of current events.

4. Purpose and bias: Consider the website's purpose or the intention behind the information presented. Some websites may have a specific agenda, bias, or an incentive to promote certain views. Look for signs of biased language, signs of advertising, or overtly one-sided arguments. Credible sources typically strive for objectivity and present balanced viewpoints.

5. Domain and URL: Examine the website's domain and URL. Governmental or educational institutions (.gov or .edu) and reputable organizations (.org) generally provide more reliable information compared to commercial (.com) or personal sites (.net, .me).

6. Site design and functionality: While not a definitive indicator of credibility, a well-designed website with proper navigation, clear writing, and minimal spelling or grammatical errors can indicate a higher level of professionalism and attention to detail.

Remember that evaluating the credibility of a website should be a multifaceted process. By considering these factors and using critical thinking skills, you can make more informed decisions about the reliability of information you find online.