CPD 150 - Connections for Success

A simple, easy way to find out if a source is credible is to use the 5Ws. For any type of source, content, or document, just ask: Who? What? Where? When? and Why?

Who

• Who wrote it?
  • A person(s)? An institution? An organization?
• What makes them qualified to write on this topic? (What makes them an expert?) 
  • Education? Experience?

Other considerations:

• Can you easily find contact information?
• Do do the authors have any affiliations?
• Is there a listed institution or an organization? What is their stated mission?

What

• What is the purpose?
• What type of information does it have? Can it be verified?
• What kind of information does it provide?
  • News, opinion, research, scholarship?

Other considerations:

• Is the information relevant and appropriate for your research needs? (Note: this does not mean that the information has to agree with your argument.)
• How will you use the information for your assignment?

When

• When was this created or last updated? (Publication date? Revised date?)
• Does your topic require the most current information, or are older sources acceptable?

Where

• Where can I verify this information? (What other sources support this information?)
  • Any references or citations? Is there a bibliography?
• Where is the information found?
  • A book, a journal, news media, website, or some other type of source?

Other considerations:

• Is it written for professionals or the general public? (Intended audience)
• Does the scope, depth, and timeliness of the source suit your need?

Why

• Why has the source been produced?
  • Is the purpose to sell, persuade, entertain, or inform?
• Does it show any bias or omissions?
• Why should I use this information? (Why is this the best possible source for your topic?)