There is no definitive way to calculate the quality of an information source. However, there are certain indicators that, in combination, can help you determine if the source you are considering is reputable. Many of these indicators apply to journals and journal articles, which are likely be the most common resource type you will use in your research.

This topic covers:

• Evaluating an article from its record - making judgements about a journal article from the information contained in its database record
• Is it peer-reviewed? - checking to see whether a journal, and therefore the articles published in it, are peer-reviewed
• Evaluating websites