Consider, first, whether the author is an expert in the field. The fact that someone has a PhD in astrophysics is no indication that he or she will be an expert in military history, for example, so be careful that the area of expertise is directly relevant to the topic.

To determine the author’s area of expertise, look for the author’s professional affiliation (where he or she works or teaches). This may be indicated at the bottom of the first page of an article or in an “About the Author” section in a book or on a Web site. Frequently, Googling the author will also reveal the author’s affiliation, but double-check to make sure the affiliation is current and that you have located the right person. You may also consult a biographical reference source available through your library. Looking to see what other works the author has published, and with whom, can also help you ascertain his or her areas of expertise.

Contributors to blogs, wikis, and online discussion forums may or may not be experts in the field. Determine whether the site screens contributors, and double-check any information taken from sites for which you cannot determine the credentials of contributors.

Also consider the author’s perspective. Most writing is not neutral or objective and does not claim to be. Knowledge of the author’s perspective enables you to assess bias and determine whether the author’s perspective affects the presentation of his or her argument. To determine the author’s perspective, look for the main point and ask yourself question like these: