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You know that you can’t believe everything you read.
That’s true for things we read in print and on the web.
But how can you know if a source is reliable?
Can subatomic particles travel faster than the speed of light?
Did scientists discover arsenic-based life?
Is College Library really the 3rd best alcohol-free place in the country to pick up a date?
You need to critically evaluate the information you find to judge its purpose, authority, relevance, currency and accuracy.
In other words, don’t forget your PARCA.
To gauge a website’s reliability, ask yourself:
What is the purpose of this information?
Is it meant to inform you? Is it trying to persuade you to think a certain way?
Is it trying to sell you something?
Who created the information? Is that person or organization an authority on this topic?
Is the information you found relevant to your topic? Is it written at an appropriate academic level?
When was the information created? When was the website last updated?
Is it current enough for your topic?
Finally, is the information accurate? Can you verify it elsewhere?
Has an editor or reviewer already verified its accuracy?
Don’t just believe any crap you find on the web, make sure it’s reliable.
Still have questions? Talk to your instructor or ask a librarian.