How can you find credible sources for research?

Step 1: Identify your research topic and question.

• What are you researching?
• What are you looking for?
• What are the key questions you need to answer?

Step 2: Use reliable search engines.

• Google Scholar
• JSTOR
• ProQuest
• ERIC
• Web of Science

Step 3: Filter your search results.

• Use keywords to refine your search.
• Narrow your results by date, source type, and other criteria.
• Use Boolean operators (AND, OR, NOT) to combine keywords.

Step 4: Evaluate the sources you find.

• Look for the following indicators of credibility:
  • Author credentials: Are the authors reputable and experienced?
  • Affiliations: Are the authors affiliated with reputable institutions?
  • Peer review: Are the articles peer-reviewed by other experts in the field?
  • Date of publication: Are the articles recent and relevant to your topic?
  • Source type: Are the sources peer-reviewed journals, books, or other reputable publications?

Step 5: Check the references of the sources you find.

• Look for other sources that cite the original source.
• This can provide you with a trail of evidence to follow and verify the credibility of the source.

Step 6: Be aware of bias.

• Not all sources are created equal. Some sources may be more biased than others.
• Be careful when using sources that have a political or ideological agenda.

Step 7: Use a variety of sources.

• Don't rely on a single source for your research.
• This will help you to get a more balanced and comprehensive understanding of your topic.

Step 8: Evaluate the evidence you find.

• Look for evidence that supports your hypothesis.
• Be careful not to accept the first source you find.
• Use critical thinking skills to evaluate the evidence and determine its reliability.