The sources you use lend you the author's credibility and understanding of the subject--so find a knowledgeable expert! Research articles also provide you with evidence for the statements you are trying to make in your own writing.
A simple way to evaluate any information is to consider its credibility, content, and currency (the 3 C's). Consider:
- Credibility of the author or publication in which the article appears
- Who wrote the article? What makes them an authority or expert on the subject?
- Google the author to find out what makes him or her an expert. Advanced degree(s) in the subject area? History of publications on the topic? Employed by a reputable university/college or educational/research organziation?
- What is the type/reputation of the source?
- Read the "About" section for a journal, magazine, or other website to learn about the scope and mission of the publication. For example, read the "About This Journal" page for Advances in Nursing Science.
- For more about different types of publications, see this chart describing scholarly, popular, and trade publications.
- Content of the article
- Does it meet your research needs? Will it answer any questions you might have about the subject? If you could have anything, is this exactly what you were looking for?
- Will it be interesting for you to read?
- Currency of the article
- Was the article published recently? Does it reflect the current treatments or therapies for this condition?
- When considering currency of scholarly journal articles, remember they are typically published quarterly (4 times/year) and it can be one year or more between the time the research is conducted and an article about it is published.
