Is that source reliable? Ask better questions.

Preview editorial draft · September 2026

A polished website is not proof of reliable information. Evaluate the author, evidence and context before using an online claim in your work.

Identify the source

Look for an identifiable author or organisation and relevant expertise. Check whether the source has a reason to promote a product or particular viewpoint.

Follow the evidence

Does the article link to the original study, document or announcement? Read the primary material when possible. A headline may omit qualifications that matter.

Check dates and context

A source can be accurate but outdated. Check publication and revision dates, the place being discussed and the population or situation to which a claim applies.

Compare independently

Find another credible source that reached its conclusion independently. Many websites repeating the same press release do not represent many independent confirmations.

Keep a source log

Record the title, author, date, URL and access date. Write down which specific claim the source supports and distinguish a direct quotation from your own paraphrase.

Use AI carefully

AI-generated answers can be useful starting points, but they can contain incorrect facts or invented references. Open cited sources and check that they actually support the statement.