The definition of a credible source varies by field, but in general, for academic writing, a credible source is one that is neutral and supported by evidence. Always use and reference reputable sources while writing a research paper. These can be books, journals, or websites.
In addition to being neutral and well-researched, a document also needs to be accurate. This means using reliable information and avoiding errors. You can verify the accuracy of a source by looking at other reliable sources for confirmation. For example, if a book says it can hold 5 miles per gallon, another book may say 2 miles per gallon is actually normal for cars of its size. The first book is accurate because it uses a reliable source (in this case, auto experts who measure gas mileage) while the second book is not because it claims 5 miles per gallon is normal.
Finally, consider the source's reputation. This will help you determine how trustworthy they are. If there are many different sources quoting different things about the same topic, then trust those that are most referenced. For example, if several books claim cigarettes are harmful, but the American Cancer Society says they're not, then trust the cancer society over the books.
When writing papers that cite sources, be sure to give credit where it is due. This includes identifying the source, dateing it, and providing a citation.
Sources that are Credible vs. Non-Credible The reader may rely on credible sources. We believe that the author's views are his or her own and can be supported by facts. Writers should always utilize a reputable source while writing a research paper, conducting research, or reading for background information.
Non-credible sources offer only subjective opinions and cannot be used as a basis for argumentation, research papers, or school assignments. They include blogs, newspapers, magazines, and other forms of media that contain opinions written by individuals who have no official connection to any institution or organization. Non-credible sources are often not accurate and can even be harmful if they give false information.
Fact-checking organizations such as Snopes.com and ABC News help readers determine whether news stories are credible. Teachers may want to discuss how writers use credible sources in their work.
In your essay, you will be given some basic information about the topic and will need to write an original piece of academic prose that answers the question being asked. For example, if the essay question is "How has social media affected high school students?" then the writer would need to describe how social media has affected high school students and explain its impact based on this analysis. The essay must also be typed or printed in English and be exactly 500 words long (including titles and references). There will be time at the end of the assignment to add additional notes and/or sources.
In general, a trustworthy or dependable source is one that specialists in your subject domain would agree is appropriate for your needs. It is crucial to critically assess sources since doing so makes you a better knowledgeable writer. Critical analysis of sources is the process of examining aspects such as accuracy, reliability, bias, and scope of coverage to name a few.
A reliable source is one that can be counted on to give you information about your topic that has been proven through time. Critical analysis of sources is important because it ensures that you are not relying on inaccurate information.
An authoritative source is one that people trust and regard as correct. Experts can be considered authoritative sources because of their knowledge in your field of interest or study. They may also have influence over other people, which means they can get you access to information not readily available elsewhere. For example, an official report from a government agency can be considered an authoritative source.
A reputable source is one that has positive reviews from others who have used it before. You should only use sources that have been recommended by others or ones that have many positive reviews on sites like Amazon.com. Reputable sources are important because they allow you to find other people's opinions on subjects you are unfamiliar with. Using sources that have not been validated by other experts could lead to writing errors such as plagiarism.