Your Turn

Determining the validity and reliability of sources is time-consuming and a little complicated at first, but the more you practice, the better you become.

For all of the types of sources we’ve discussed, you need to determine a few things to decide whether to use
a source.

1. Author’s credentials: Does the author know his or her subject? Does the author have an advanced degree? Is the author regarded as an expert in the field?
2. Bias: Is the source objective, presenting both sides of the argument, or does it take a firm stance on one side of the issue?
3. Evidence: Can you tell where the author gets his or her facts? Does the author name specific publications or Web sites where you can find the same facts?

Complete the chart below by dragging the “Source” into the “Valid” or “Not Valid” column.