Using Sources

When researching, choose sources that will help you accomplish the purpose of your assignment. For example, it may be more effective to rely on reports and studies when explaining a concept as opposed to referencing editorials for an opinion essay. The key is to not only find sources but to find the best sources for your particular assignment. Keep reading for more information on choosing sources for your project.

Sources consulted: The Upswing Writing Lab & The Little Seagull Handbook 

Guide created by: C. Jones 6/20/2019

Revised by: E. Raley 1/5/2024

Consider whether primary sources, secondary sources, or a combination would be appropriate.

• A Primary source refers to information you produce on your own, such as personal interviews, surveys, and observations. These forms of research allow you to gain specific information that otherwise would not be available. Primary sources also include original documents like the U.S. Constitution or Declaration of Independence, speeches, letters, and photographs. These materials can add a rich historical perspective to your research.
• A Secondary source refers to materials that explain or comment on primary sources. Such materials include articles and books from the library. Secondary sources are beneficial because they provide context and analysis of pre-existing information. These sources can help you build and advance your own ideas.

Credibility is another important component to consider when choosing sources. Anyone can post an article online, so evaluating sources is crucial. To test a source’s credibility, ask yourself:

• Where was the information published? Is the publisher or organization reputable? If you don’t recognize the publisher, doing a quick search can be helpful to ensure the source’s credibility.
• For internet sources, who is the sponsor? Look at the end of the URL: .edu sources are maintained by colleges and universities, .gov sources are from governmental agencies, .org sources are produced by organizations, and .com sources come from commercial enterprises. Be careful when using .org sources since any group can start an organization. Some organizations are highly credible like mayoclinic.org. That said, for as many useful .org sources, there are as many groups claiming to be an organization that have no authority. Make sure to confirm the organization’s credibility before using a source. Similarly, .com sources also need to be carefully evaluated. Since anyone can start a .com website, look to see if the information can be trusted. Sources that feature several ads, questionable information, poor grammar, or no author are often not trustworthy.
• Who is the author? Is the author named? Are the writer’s credentials provided? Does the author have a reputation for being biased? To ensure credibility, choose sources by qualified authors.
• Is there any sign of bias? Select sources that address all sides of an issue. The author may have an opinion, but various perspectives should be represented. If the source is biased, it is providing an incomplete view and is not useful.
• When was the source published? If the source is older, is the information still reliable? If the source was just published, have there been any retractions or corrections? Older sources can provide a historical perspective as long as the material is still accurate. Current sources allow you to discuss the most recent information available. The key for either type of source is to ensure the accuracy of the information.

Remember that your sources are a reflection of you as a writer. Choose sources that you are confident in and that your audience will take seriously. Strong sources will help you craft a strong paper.

The RVC Writing Center offers many resources to help you with these topics and all of your writing concerns. Titles of available resources can be found in the navigation bars along the left side of this page and/or by using the search bar. The Writing Center’s Resource Library can be accessed by using the following link:

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