Page 519 - Wordsmith A Guide to College Writing

When was it published? A publication date helps you evaluate the
timeliness of the source. In fields where change is rapid, such as

medicine or computer technology, finding up-to-date sources is

essential.

Who wrote it? Is the author an authority in the field? If not—if the

author is a journalist, for example—does the author consult and

quote credible, authoritative sources? These questions help you
evaluate the authority and credibility of your source.

Is the coverage in-depth or is it an overview? While an overview

may provide good background information, you also need articles

and books that cover your topic in depth.

Does it provide an answer to my research question? Just because

an article is on the topic you have decided to research does not
mean that it answers the question you are asking. Hint: If, after

reasonable effort, you can’t find articles that answer your question,

ask a different question. Use the articles you have already

scanned to help uncover other interesting research questions.

After evaluating your sources, you will have narrowed the choices to

the articles, books, or websites that are most helpful to you. Check out

books and photocopy or print items that cannot be checked out.

Although you can take notes while you are in the library, it is a better

idea to read through your sources, live with them for a while, and
absorb the material before taking notes.

Step 3: Outline Your Paper and