Pensacola: Finding and Evaluating Resources

A peer-reviewed article, also called scholarly or academic, is an article reviewed by experts in the field before publication to ensure accuracy and quality. These articles are highly reliable for academic work and help students understand expert research methods, enhancing critical thinking and professional knowledge. 

Author: Written by experts in the field, often with academic credentials and university affiliations.

Audience: Intended for scholars, researchers, and students; uses specialized terminology.

References: Includes in-text citations and a reference list (often labeled References or Bibliography).

Abstract: Contains a brief summary of the article’s content at the beginning.

Graphics: May include charts, graphs, and tables to present data.

Information Literacy is the ability to:

• Determine the extent of information needed
• Access the needed information effectively and efficiently
• Evaluate the information and its sources critically
• Incorporate selected information into one’s knowledge base
• Use information effectively to accomplish a specific purpose
• Understand the economic, legal, and social issues surrounding the use of information, and access and use information ethically and legally

Source: Information Literacy Competency Standards for Higher Education

1. Who is/are the author(s)?

Look for a named author with credentials or a reputable organization. If none is listed, the source is likely not credible. 

2. Does the source provide references?

Credible sources cite other reliable works, which can also lead you to additional research materials.

3. How recent is the source?

The need for recent sources depends on your topic. Fast-changing fields like medicine or technology require the most current information.

4. What is the author’s purpose?

Determine whether the author presents unbiased information or promotes a specific viewpoint. 

5. Who is your intended audience?

For academic work, peer-reviewed (scholarly or refereed) journals are among the most credible sources.

Tip: Avoid websites without identifiable authors unless they come from reputable institutions (e.g., university, credible news outlets, government agency, or well-known nonprofits). Use caution with sites like Wikipedia in academic writing—content can be changed by anyone and it should not be used in academic writing.

A website’s ending (.gov, .edu, .org, .com) shows who runs it and can hint at the reliability of its information

.gov -  U.S. government agency

.edu -  Educational institution (school, college, or university)

.org - Nonprofit organizations (medical or research societies, advocacy groups)

.com - Commercial websites (businesses and pharmaceutical companies)