gardner12e

Relevance

The first thing to consider in looking at a possible source is whether it is relevant: Does it relate to your subject in an appropriate way? How well does it fit your needs? The answers to these questions depend on your research project and the kind of information you seek.

Is it introductory? Introductory information is basic and elementary. It does not require prior knowledge about the topic. Introductory sources can be useful when you’re first learning about a subject, but they are less useful when you’re drawing conclusions about a particular aspect of that subject.
Is it definitional? Definitional information provides descriptive details about a subject. It might help you introduce a topic to others or clarify the focus of your investigation.
Is it analytical? Analytical information supplies and interprets data about origins, behaviors, differences, and uses. In most cases, this is the kind of information you want.
Is it comprehensive? The more detail, the better. Avoid unconfirmed opinions, and look instead for sources that consider the topic in depth and offer plenty of evidence to support their conclusions.
Is it current? You should usually give preference to recent sources, although older ones can sometimes be useful (for instance, primary sources for a historical topic or if the source is still cited by others in a field).
Can you conclude anything from it? Use the “So what?” test: So what does this information mean? Why does it matter to my project?