Research Basics: Evaluate Sources

College students need reliable, authoritative information!

Consider these things before using a source:

•WHO created the source? An expert? An amateur?

•WHAT is its purpose? Entertainment, sell something, inform, persuade?

•WHEN was the source created? Is it too old to be relevant  for your topic?

•WHERE does the information come from? Are sources cited in a proper format?

•WHY will you use the source? What value does it add to your paper/project?

Thank you to Radford University's McConnell Library for sharing this image.

Helpful tips for taking effective notes:

• Write out full citations for each source
• Make note of whether you are writing down a direct quote or something you have summarized or paraphrased yourself
• Only write down the important things that you think you will actually use in your assignment. If you know you won't use it in your finished assignment, don't write it down.
• Review your notes. This will help you to identify any holes. Continue the research process to fill in those holes.

If you need help with note-taking skills, contact the VWCC Academic Link to schedule a coaching session: 540-857-6442.