FAQ: What are credible sources?

Merriam-Webster's dictionary defines the word credible This link opens in a new window as "offering reasonable grounds for being believed." A credible source, then, is one that you can reasonably believe to be true.

You can use the following five criteria to help you determine if the source offers those "reasonable grounds" for credibility:

• Currency This link opens in a new window: Is the content presented current enough for your project?
• Relevancy This link opens in a new window:  Does it answer your question or contribute to your research?
• Accuracy This link opens in a new window: Is the information provided correct?
• Authority This link opens in a new window: Does the author have expertise on the topic about which he/she is writing?
• Purpose or Objectivity This link opens in a new window: Is there bias or a slant given to the information provided?

For more information on evaluating sources, check out our Evaluating Sources This link opens in a new window guide.

References

Merriam-Webster. (n.d.). Credible. In Merriam-Webster.com dictionary. Retrieved January 4, 2020, from https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/credible This link opens in a new window