Evaluating Sources: Who, What, When, Why
Apply a four-question framework to evaluate any source of information.
Before trusting any source, ask: WHO created it? WHAT evidence do they provide? WHEN was it created? WHY did they create it? These four questions reveal a lot about reliability.
WHO: Evaluating the Author
Consider the author's credentials, expertise, and potential biases. A cardiologist writing about heart health is more credible than a celebrity. An organization funded by a specific industry might have biases related to that industry.
WHAT: Evaluating the Evidence
Good sources support their claims with evidence — data, research, expert quotes, or documented examples. Be skeptical of sources that make strong claims without providing evidence.
WHEN: Evaluating Currency
In fast-moving fields like science, medicine, and technology, information can become outdated quickly. Always check when a source was published and whether newer information is available.
WHY: Evaluating Purpose
Every source has a purpose: to inform, persuade, entertain, or sell. Understanding the purpose helps you read critically. A company's website about their own products has a different purpose than an independent review.
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3 questions · Grade 3 level