While you are searching for relevant information about your topic you will need to think about the accuracy of the information, whether the information is from a reputable source, whether it is objective and current. The basic criteria for assessing information and questions you might want to think about are listed below. 

Accuracy        

• Is the information reliable?
• Is the information error-free?
• Is the information based on proven facts?
• Can the information be verified against other reliable sources?

Authority       

• Who is the author?
• Does he or she have the qualifications to speak/write on that topic?
• Is the author affiliated with a reputable university or organization in this subject field?
• Is the source peer reviewed or refereed?

Objectivity     

• What is the intended purpose of the information?
• Is the information fact or opinion?
• Is the information biased?

Currency        

• When was the information published?
• Is the information current or out-dated?
• Does currency matter in this topic?

Coverage        

• Does the information covered meet your information needs?
• Does it provide basic or in depth coverage

Further Reading:

Reading critically

The Sage Research Methods Online database (SRMO) is a good source of full text electronic Books, chapters, and articles on a range of research methodologies.  It includes a wide range of items in relation to literature review processes, and importantly how to read critically.

Examples:

Goodwyn, A. & Stables, A. W. (2004). Learning to Read Critically: Learning to read critically in language and literacy : SAGE Publications Ltd doi: 10.4135/9781849209410

Quinton, S. & Smallbone, T. (2006). How to read critically. In Sage Study Skills: Postgraduate research in business (pp. 81-96). : SAGE Publications Ltd doi: 10.4135/9781849209564.n6