Evaluation takes place in the context of your research task. What do you need? Are you browsing for new ideas and opinions or trying to find evidence to support a position? Always ask: Does this source provide the kind of information that I need?
- Does the item contain information relevant to your topic?
- Read the introduction and conclusion to the source.
- Scan its headings or chapter titles.
- Look through the tables of contents and indexes of books.
- Does the information presented support or refute your ideas?
- Do you have counter arguments for the information refuting your ideas?
- Does the material provide you with new information?
