Resource Guide: Evaluating Websites: Home

Many websites contain reliable information, but anyone can publish a website, so be especially cautious and critical when using Internet information.

Use this checklist to evaluate the quality of internet sites.

NAME OF SITE: _________________________________________

URL/LOCATION: _________________________________________

CURRENCY

• Is there a copyright date?
• When was the site last updated?

AUTHORITY

• Who is authoring the information?
• Is it clear who sponsors the site and what the sponsor’s purpose is?
• Is this a recognized organization or individual?
• Is there information on how to contact them?
• Is there a list of references?

ACCURACY

• Does the information appear to be accurate (spelling, format, etc.)?
• Are the webpages easy to navigate, structurally sound, and usable?
• Can you verify the information elsewhere?
• Do others in the field review the content of the site?

OBJECTIVITY

• What goals do the pages meet?
• What biases are reflected in the site?
• Is the information intended to persuade the audience?
• Does this site link only to similar points-of-view?

 COVERAGE

• Is the Web site still under construction?
• Does the site provide a comprehensive range of thought and theory on the subject?

 FINAL QUESTIONS

• Is the site relevant to my topic?
• Is this the best information I can find on my topic?
• Does this site complement material I have already gathered?

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