English 1A

Evaluating Websites and Other Sources

Consider looking vertically

• Who is the author?
• Why was it written -- for what purpose, organization, or audience?
• When was it written?
• Does it include references or works cited list?

If you cannot determine the credibility of the information you are using, especially from a website, it's best not to use it to factually support your argument. Using biased or inaccurate information in your paper can negatively impact your grade. 

Look at the 5Ws method of evaluating sources. Who, What, When, Where and Why?

View these videos below to learn how to go further in your evaluation by investigating the website laterally. SIFT (Stop, Investigate, Find and Trace) is a method of evaluating information sources that looks at the context of the information. Review its source, references, hyperlinks, investigate the author and publisher by researching further.